April 11-17 is National Animal Care and Control Appreciation Week. It is the ideal time to recognize and show gratitude for the efforts of exceptional animal control officers around the globe. The National Animal Care & Control Association proudly promotes professionalism year-round within the animal care and control field. However, National Animal Care and Control Appreciation Weeks gives the organization an opportunity to renew its efforts and raise awareness for the important causes animal care and control personnel undertake.

National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week also gives local communities an opportunity to spread the word about the important work their animal care and control officers do every day. The more people know about these services, the easier it is to say “thank you” to the officers who help provide care and protection when no one else could.

SUGGESTIONS FOR RAISING AWARENESS

City officials could help kick off this important week by making a public proclamation about how personnel in the animal care and control industry regularly risk their safety and even their lives protecting helpless pets and wild animals. These officers help rescue countless animals from starvation, disease, injury, and abuse. The city proclamation could also recognize that the selfless service of these officers and personnel helps protect the public from rabies and other dangerous diseases.

Do not forget the importance of emphasizing proper pet care during your public proclamation made to the community. Pet owners need to know the importance of keeping their dogs contained indoors, behind a fence or on a leash to keep them from wandering the neighborhood. Every pet owner should also be reminded that regular pet immunizations are essential for keeping all the animals in the city healthy.

CELEBRATING ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL

City officials might also choose to use this opportunity to present an Employee of the Year award to an exceptional animal care and control employee. No matter how you choose to celebrate, take the time to thank an animal care and control officer for his or her hard work and dedication to some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.