Animal Rescue Organizations Train and Collaborate on Disaster Preparedness 20 Years After Hurricane Katrina

by | Aug 26, 2025 | Announcements, Press

Media Contact: Paige Strott
paiges@americanhumane.org

Animal Rescue Organizations Train and Collaborate on Disaster
Preparedness 20 Years After Hurricane Katrina

Animal Welfare Organizations Available to Discuss Significant Improvements in Animal Disaster Readiness and Response Achieved in the 20 Years Since Hurricane Katrina

Washington, D.C. (August 7, 2025) – Organizations that make up the National Animal Rescue and Sheltering Coalition (NARSC) have made significant improvements to animal disaster response in the 20 years since Hurricane Katrina struck Louisiana.

To improve readiness in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, animal rescue and animal welfare organizations came together to create NARSC to identify, prioritize and find collaborative solutions to major human-animal emergency issues. NARSC has led to collaboration between agencies that used to operate in silos, and the coordination of resources to better help communities especially during widespread disasters.

“Since Hurricane Katrina, NARSC has transformed how we respond to disasters, not by working alone, but by working together,” said Jerrica Owen, president-elect of NARSC and Executive Director of the National Animal Care and Control Association. “Today, collaboration is our strongest asset. By uniting national organizations, state agencies, and local responders under a common mission, we’ve built a more coordinated, compassionate, and effective approach to disaster response for animals and the people who love them.”

During January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles, NARSC members, including wildfire trained responders, collaborated to help with LA County Animal Search and Rescue, led emergency animal transports, provided animal incident management support, and established sheltering and support systems like fostering networks, reunifications, and pet food and supply management and distribution.

Over the course of six weeks, NARSC member organizations rescued and evacuated more than 5,000 animals stranded and dehydrated due to Hurricane Katrina. Additionally, many NARSC member organizations were part of the animal rescue team at The Lamar-Dixon Expo Center, which became the largest animal shelter and animal rescue operation in U.S. history.

During Hurricane Katrina, tragically an estimated 50,000 to 70,000 pets were killed and hundreds of thousands were left behind during evacuations and displaced. NARSC was founded to prevent tragedies of this scale and protect animals in harm’s way.

NARSC member organizations have established a network of highly trained and experienced first responders and helped write the FEMA resource typing for animal positions during disasters. Additionally, NARSC members work proactively to provide training, exercises, education, and share lessons learned in disasters to help communities build resilience and be better prepared.

The NARSC members are American Humane Society, American Red Cross, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), ASAR Training and Response, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement, Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Code 3 Associates, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, National Animal Care and Control Association, National Alliance of State Animal and Agricultural Emergency Programs, Petco Love, PetSmart Charities and RedRover.

NARSC member organizations shared the following on their disaster readiness improvements and reflections in honor of the 20th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

“American Humane Society was proud to be boots on the ground during Hurricane Katrina, as part of our nearly 150-year history of rescuing, caring for, and protecting animals,” says Cesar Perea, Associate Vice President of Rescue at American Humane Society. “As one of the founding members of NARSC, we have worked alongside member organizations over the past 20 years to help ensure we are prepared to save animals when disasters strike.”

“In the two decades since Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, we’ve seen the animal welfare community come together to share learnings, enhance coordination and communication, and implement emergency response best practices in communities hit hardest by severe weather events,” says Susan Anderson, ASPCA senior director of disaster response. “With disasters becoming even more frequent and destructive, we know we are most effective in preventing tragedy and saving lives when we proactively prepare, evolve, and work alongside one another.”

“The AVMA has transitioned away from the model of national veterinary response teams (Veterinary Medical Assistance Teams – VMAT) to encouraging and supporting the development and training of state level veterinary response teams,” said Warren J. Hess, DVM, Disaster Coordinator for AVMA). “As part of this effort, the AVMA has created the Veterinary First Responder Certificate Program which trains veterinarians with an entry level of knowledge needed to become a first responder.”

“We’ve come a very long way in twenty years when it comes to reuniting lost pets in times of disasters,” said Petco Love President Susanne Kogut. “Petco Love Lost, our free nationwide lost and found pet database, is used by thousands of participating animal shelters, pet parents, and finders of lost pets displaced during and after disasters. Using “technology for good,” our AI photo-matching technology has reunited more than 100,000 lost pets with the families who love them.”

RedRover Director of Field Services Beth Gammie said, “Hurricane Katrina’s catastrophic impact made it clear that human and pet safety are inseparable during disasters. Seeing pets included in disaster preparedness plans, and the collaborative effort between organizations to ensure evacuations that protect all family members is real progress.”

NARSC fully integrates into emergency management processes consistent with the National Incident Management System (NIMS). Member agencies have cooperatively responded nationally and internationally to wildfires, floods, ice storms, tornadoes, hurricanes and other natural disasters; as well as human-caused animal disasters including hoarding situations.

Following Hurricane Katrina, NARSC members delivered an Open Letter to the 109th US Congress which advocated for a more comprehensive national emergency disaster response: one that accounts for animals as well as people. The PETs Act was then established, which represented a monumental step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of animals during disasters. The PETs Act requires states, cities, and counties to address the needs of household pets and service animals in their emergency preparedness disaster relief planning and response to be eligible for federal reimbursement of eligible expenses.

For more information, please visit thenarsc.org and for photos of deployments and NARSC trainings please visit this link. Additionally, please reach out to our media contact for interview requests.

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Nationwide Collaboration Establishes Safety Standards for Animal Control Officers

by | Jun 1, 2025 | Press

Nationwide Collaboration Establishes Safety Standards for Animal Control Officers

This morning, June 1, 2025, the National Animal Care and Control Association, together with 20 State Associations, is proud to release a unified Position Statement calling for clear, minimum safety standards that every ACO deserves.

Position Statement: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
This milestone reflects a powerful moment of alignment in our field. Together, we are standing behind an essential truth: Every officer should have access to the safety equipment, tools, and PPE needed to perform their duties safely, humanely, and effectively.

The position statement outlines:

  • The minimum safety tools and PPE every officer should be equipped with
  • Gold standards that represent best practices across the profession
  • A shared commitment to officer safety, public trust, and animal welfare

This is more than a document, it’s a symbol of unity and a clear standard for what safety should look like in the field, the courtroom, and our communities.

We’re grateful to every State Association that contributed and look forward to continuing the work to ensure Animal Control Officers have the tools, training, and protection they need.

Alabama Animal Control Association 

Alaska Animal Control Association

Animal Care & Control Association of Tennessee

Animal Welfare Association of Colorado

Arizona Animal Control Association

Arkansas Animal Control Association

California Animal Welfare Association

Florida Animal Protection and Advocacy Association

Kansas Animal Control Association

Kentucky Animal Control Association

Louisiana Animal Control Association

Michigan Association of Animal Control Officers

Missouri Animal Control Association

North Carolina Animal and Rabies Control Association

North Carolina Animals Federation

Ohio County Dog Wardens Association

Southeastern Animal Control Association

Texas Animal Control Association

Virginia Animal Control Association

Washington Federation for Animal Care and Control Agencies

Supporters and community members are encouraged to follow and share the message on social media using #ProtectTheProtectors and #StrengthInCollaboration.

About National Animal Care and Control Association

The National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA) was formed in 1978 to provide resources, standardized training, and support for animal care and control professionals across the United States. Throughout the organization’s history, NACA has been a leader in providing guidance for its members as the role of animal shelters and animal care and control staff has evolved.

NACA recognizes that today’s animal field services officers provide a wide array of services to their communities, including saving pets in danger, protecting human health and safety, enforcing laws and ordinances, providing support and education to community members, disaster response, helping lost pets get home, and helping wildlife, livestock, and exotic animals, in addition to cats, dogs, and other pets. NACA offers guidance and training on many of the most crucial responsibility areas of officers, and we are a leading voice in support of the community policing approach to animal control, in order to prevent the root causes that lead to cruelty, neglect, and public safety issues.

NACA understands the unique role that animal care and control professionals play in each community and is dedicated to ensuring its members have the resources, tools, and training necessary to perform this role safely and effectively.

Congratulations 2025 Award Recipients!

by | Apr 14, 2025 | Announcements, Blog, Press

Celebrating Excellence in Animal Care and Control

Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and to all those who were nominated for this year’s NACA Awards. Your dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts are what move this industry forward every single day. Whether you’re in the field, behind the scenes, or advocating in your community, your work does not go unnoticed. These awards are a celebration of the people who lead with heart, serve with integrity, and make a lasting impact on the lives of animals and the communities they protect. We are honored to recognize just a few of the many incredible professionals who inspire us all.

Animal Control Officer of the Year:
Ryan Jesien

Ryan Jesien has been named NACA’s 2025 Animal Control Officer of the Year in recognition of his unwavering dedication and resilience in the field. He demonstrates exceptional customer service, goes above and beyond job responsibilities by taking initiative on new initiatives, consistent dedication to his community, exemplary work ethic and positive attitude and he also achieves significant results in challenging situations. Reflecting on the award, Ryan shared, “This award is a true honor and a reflection of the many dedicated professionals I’ve had the privilege to work alongside throughout my career. I’m grateful every day to be part of this field, and the only way I could enjoy my job more is if there were two of me. Thank you for this recognition—it means more than I can say.” His passion for the profession and commitment to service make him a true standout in animal care and control.

Animal Shelter Professional of the Year:
Melissa Sheldon

Melissa Sheldon has been named NACA’s 2025 Animal Shelter Professional of the Year in recognition of her exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and lasting impact on her team and community. Though she’s relatively new to her role as director, Melissa quickly rose to the challenge after stepping in during a time of organizational upheaval—described by her team as “the aftermath of a tornado.” What began as a temporary assignment soon became a permanent position, and in just two years, Melissa has become what her team calls “the greatest asset this department has seen for a very long time.” Reflecting on the honor, Melissa shared, “Being named Animal Shelter Professional of the Year is an incredible honor that reflects not only my personal commitment, but also the strength and heart of the shelter and animal control teams I’m proud to work alongside.” Her leadership, rooted in compassion and progress, is exactly what this field needs—and we’re proud to recognize her outstanding contributions.

Leader of the Year: Saylor Knox

Saylor Knox has been named NACA’s 2025 Leader of the Year for his unmatched compassion, hands-on leadership, and transformative impact on the Longview community and beyond. A true example of leading from the front, Saylor is known for showing up—whether that means covering shifts, working in the field, organizing regional trainings, or personally delivering food to families and pets in need. As one nominator shared, “Leadership is not pointing people in the right direction and then sitting back… it is being able to guide others toward a brighter future, on the front lines.”

In his own words, Saylor reflects, “I never realized, when I laced up my boots all those years ago, how dramatically my life would change… There is no ‘me,’ only ‘we.’ Without the dedication of every single animal welfare individual, this mission would not be possible. We fight, we persevere, and we make a difference together.”

From legislative advocacy to personal acts of generosity, Saylor’s leadership is defined not just by vision, but by action—and his legacy of service continues to inspire a growing network of professionals dedicated to creating a more humane and connected world for animals and people alike.

Diane Lane Memorial Award: Danya Proud

Danya Proud has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Diane Lane Memorial Award in recognition of her extraordinary volunteer service and unwavering commitment to animal welfare. With a career rooted in brand and marketing leadership, Danya has channeled her talents and compassion into saving and supporting the lives of animals in her community. From fostering over 100 dogs with Starfish Animal Rescue and raising over $15,000 in critical funding, to becoming a trusted pet sitter, adoption matchmaker, and Board member for Canine Therapy Corps, Danya’s reach is as broad as it is impactful. She is often the first call when an animal is in need—and always the first to say “yes” when that call comes.

Danya shared, “I am deeply honored to receive the Diane Lane Memorial Award, a recognition that reflects not just effort, but the true spirit of going above and beyond in service to animals and their welfare.” Through her actions, advocacy, and the love she brings into every life she touches, Danya continues to be, in the words of Ricky Gervais, a “big voice” for those without

Bill Lehman Memorial Award:
Charleen “Charlie” Propsom

Charleen “Charlie” Propsom has been named the 2025 recipient of the Bill Lehman Memorial Award for her extraordinary impact as a champion for animals and unwavering ally to the field of animal care and control. Though not employed in the profession, Charlie’s decades of leadership, vision, and compassion have transformed the lives of thousands of animals in Chicago. In 2001, she founded Friends of Chicago Animal Care & Control (FCACC), a nonprofit created to support the city’s municipal shelter and provide care and resources beyond what the city budget could offer. Thanks to her relentless advocacy, CACC’s live release rate rose from just 10% to over 80%, supported by groundbreaking programs such as the After-Hours Crisis Care Program, which provides emergency veterinary care when no other options are available.

Charlie has never shied away from the hard work, creating solutions like foster care systems, volunteer coordination, and medical investments that have fundamentally changed the sheltering landscape in Chicago. Reflecting on the award, she shared, “Sometimes I think the hardest part of helping animals is being respectful to other humans who are not. Knowing how fierce the competition is for this award, I did NOT expect to win it at all. I am stunned and honored.”

Charlie’s compassion, innovation, and humility embody the very spirit of this award—and have made Chicago a better place for animals who once had nowhere else to turn.

Outstanding Agency Of The Year Award:
Brownsville Animal Regulation and Care Center

 Brownsville Animal Regulation and Care Center (BARCC) has been named the 2025 recipient of the Outstanding Animal Care and Control Agency Award in recognition of their unwavering commitment to both animals and the community they serve. Located at the southern tip of Texas, BARCC faces the unique challenges of a border city with creativity, compassion, and grit. In 2024 alone, they were honored with the Best Friends Animal Society Transformational Change Award after saving 2,476 more lives than the previous year. From hosting free microchip clinics at the local farmers market to creating pet shelters from donated pallets during cold snaps, BARCC’s dedication shines through in every initiative.

This agency doesn’t just respond to the needs of the community—they anticipate them. Their Pet Pantry serves over 300 families, and their team transports up to 50 animals monthly to ensure timely spay and neuter surgeries, despite lacking an on-site veterinarian. Their outreach efforts include educational partnerships with local schools, rotary clubs, and corporate teams, all while actively working to return pets home with targeted canvassing and microchip checks. Their animal control officers, shelter staff, and volunteers embody the mission to save every life possible and keep Brownsville safe.

As their team shared, “This award is a testament to the unwavering dedication and compassionate spirit of our entire team. We are committed to serving the animals and citizens of Brownsville with integrity and care, and this recognition fuels our passion to continue striving for excellence in animal welfare.” BARCC is proof that deep community roots and forward-thinking programs can drive real, lasting change.

Outstanding State Association Award:
Texas Animal Control Association

The Texas Animal Control Association (TACA) has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Outstanding State Association Award. As the oldest state animal control association in the country, TACA has long stood as a pillar of strength, leadership, and innovation in animal welfare. Their dedication to educating and supporting Animal Control Officers (ACOs) across Texas is unmatched, offering high-quality training programs and resources that elevate the profession throughout the state.

TACA continues to set the bar high through strong legislative advocacy—most notably their ongoing collaboration with the Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN) to have ACOs formally recognized as first responders. This bold initiative reflects their commitment not only to the animals in their state but also to the professionals who serve and protect them. With a

growing membership base, consistent engagement in NACA-sponsored training, and a longstanding legacy of excellence, TACA exemplifies what it means to be a professional and forward-thinking state association.

We are proud to recognize TACA for their continued impact on the profession and their dedication to building a stronger, more unified animal care and control community in Texas and beyond.

 

NACA Inaugural Summit: A Unified Vision for Animal Care and Control

NACA Inaugural Summit: A Unified Vision for Animal Care and Control

by | Jun 1, 2024 | Announcements, Blog, News, Press

NACA Inaugural Summit: A Unified Vision for Animal Care and Control

San Antonio, Texas, recently hosted a pivotal event in the realm of animal welfare—the inaugural summit organized by the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA). This landmark gathering brought together 85 representatives from 37 states, all unified by a shared vision: to create a better tomorrow for animal care and control.

The single-day summit marked the first time such a broad coalition of animal care and control professionals convened under one roof. The event underscored the importance of collaboration across states and municipalities, highlighting how unity can drive significant progress in policies and practices related to animal welfare.

The summit featured an array of keynote speakers, including leading policymakers, experts in mental health, and a panel that highlighted emerging trends in our field. Each brought unique insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today. Networking opportunities at the summit were designed to equip participants with relationships, connections, and tools to bring back to their respective states, fostering a nationwide improvement in animal care standards.

A significant outcome of the summit was the unanimous agreement of the long overdue united conversation on enhancing the welfare of animals across the country. This conversation emphasized the need for standards, enhanced professionalism, and a united voice in which to move the needle.

The collaborative spirit of the summit was perhaps best exemplified in the formation of a new task force dedicated to addressing the most pressing issues in animal care and control related to data. The task force will work together over the coming months to identify alignment and integration opportunities across various data systems used by shelters, rescues, and animal control agencies. By standardizing data collection and sharing practices, they aim to enhance transparency, improve animal welfare outcomes, and streamline operations.

The NACA inaugural summit in San Antonio set a precedent for future gatherings, establishing a strong foundation for continued collaboration. By uniting 37 states under a common cause, the summit has catalyzed a movement towards more compassionate and effective animal control practices.

As attendees return to their respective states, the momentum generated at the summit promises to inspire tangible changes. The shared commitment to a better tomorrow for animals underscores the potential for profound advancements in animal care and control nationwide.

In the words of one attendee, “This summit has shown us that when we come together, we can overcome any challenge and truly make a difference for the animals who depend on us.” The future of animal welfare looks brighter than ever, thanks to the dedication and unity demonstrated at this historic event.

NACA extends a heartfelt and special thank you to the sponsors of the 2024 State Association Summit. Their generous support was instrumental in making this event a reality, and without it, the summit would not have been possible.

NACA Inaugural Summit: A Unified Vision for Animal Care and Control

National Animal Care & Control Association Announces the 2023 Annual Award Winners

by | Oct 9, 2023 | Announcements, Blog, Press

MEDIA CONTACT
Jerrica Owen
619-551-9864
jowen@nacanet.org

NATIONAL –The National Animal Care & Control Association understands that the work done by animal care
and control professionals across the country is physically and emotionally demanding and requires individuals
of the strongest character. We have been recognizing individuals, agencies, organizations, and state
associations for more than 25 years on the national level for their service within the animal care and control
field. In the world of animal care and control, exceptional individuals, agencies, and state associations stand
as beacons of hope, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our industry. Every year, the National Animal
Care and Control Association (NACA) shines a spotlight on these remarkable heroes through its annual awards
program. As we wrap up 2023, our 45th year, it is our great pleasure to introduce you to the inspiring winners
who have been honored for their outstanding contributions to the field.

 

Animal Control Officer of the Year – Samuel Cintron (New Jersey) Associated Humane Societies, New Jersey

NACA is honored to name Officer Sam Cintron as the 2023 National Animal Care and Control Association’s Officer of the Year! This recognition is a testament to his dedication, exceptional expertise, and outstanding contributions to our field.

This achievement reflects not only his individual accomplishments but also the positive impacts he has made on his community and the broader animal care and control field. Officer Cintron serves as an inspiration to all of us, reminding us of the incredible difference that one person can make. Officer Cintron’s path has taken him from a start in pet boarding to training dogs with k-9 quality behavior modification His passion motivated him to open his own training company before embarking on a career as an animal control officer with St. Hubert’s.

Here are what his colleagues and peers had to share about Officer Cintron’s work:

“There isn’t a better caregiver, handler, and communicator of animals that I’ve seen in my life. I’ve
watched him control the rowdiest of animals and restore an animal’s trust in humans with the way he
approaches and nourishes the animal’s insecurities and fears. I couldn’t recommend a better person
who’s not only handled the rescue of the animals with better poise and confidence but also with love
and a genuine desire to restore these animals to a better habitat and quality of life.”

 “Sam has a passion for animals that surpasses anything I have ever seen. He cares deeply about them
and is always looking out for their best interest while also having great care for people.”

 “Sam is a dedicated animal control officer who truly cares not only for the animals but the community
he serves. He is diligent about educating children about the importance of compassionate animal care
and reminding them that ACOs are helpers and not someone to be afraid of. He checked in on his
fellow co-workers during difficult times, and always made a point to check up on the animals he saved.”

 “Hardworking and passionate man who absolutely loves what he does and does it right. He always
goes way above and beyond to improve the lives of animals and help their people too.”

“Receiving this award is an incredible honor for me. The reason behind my passion for animal welfare is deeply rooted in me, and I have always been determined to help animals in need. I am thrilled that my efforts to combine my love for animals and my community have been recognized. Educating the younger generation is one of my top priorities, and I hope to continue doing so. Winning this award has motivated me to push myself further and keep learning and growing as I help my community. I am truly grateful for all the support I have received, especially from my family and friends. My wife, Greissy, has been my constant support and has always encouraged me to be the best animal control officer I can be, even during its most challenging moments. Thank you, NACA for this honor.” Sam Cintron

Leader of the Year – Jennifer Toussaint (Arlington, VA)
Animal Rescue League of Arlington

NACA is honored to name Chief Jennifer Toussaint as the 2023 National Animal Care and Control Association Leader of the Year! This prestigious recognition is a testament to her exceptional leadership, dedication, and tireless efforts in advancing the field of animal care and control. Her leadership qualities, compassionate approach, and innovative initiatives have inspired those around her and helped transform the landscape of animal care and control

Since becoming Chief, Jennifer has implemented a local ordinance in relation to exotic animal care and ownership. She has also expanded the Animal Control Department’s outreach efforts in providing additional support to pet owners to enable high owner pet retention in the community. She specializes nationally in Humane Urban Wildlife Management practices and has been published multiple times on the topic. Jennifer is a CIT-trained officer and has trained animal control and welfare professionals on a variety of topics including active listening, emergency preparedness, emotional support and service animals, animal neglect/cruelty investigations, and wildlife intake and triage. She is the Incident Commander for the Community Animal Response Team in Arlington; VA. Jennifer is the 2017 recipient of the Virginia Animal Control Association Dr.Kent Roberts Animal Control Officer of the Year and received a commendation from the Virginia General Assembly for her service. In 2020, Jennifer’s department won the Outstanding Agency of the Year award from the Virginia Animal Control Association. She is a graduate of Moravian College with a bachelor’s degree in political science and Spanish. Jennifer shares her home with her rescue dogs Rheagan and Ducky.

 

Animal Care and Control Professional of the Year – Robert Bryant (Mobile, AL)
City of Mobile, Alabama

NACA is honored to name Robert Bryant as the 2023 National Animal Care and Control Association Shelter Professional of the Year! This prestigious recognition is a testament to his exceptional leadership, dedication, and tireless efforts in advancing the field of animal welfare and sheltering.

Robert recently took on the job (more of a project) of Director for the City of Mobile Animal Services. He came to us from the Montgomery Humane Society, where he was the Humane Officer. The current facility for the City of Mobile Animal Services was built in the 1960s, and in addition to the outdated building, the entire program needed an upgrade from the outdated Animal Control and Shelter model to a community-centered Animal Services approach.

Robert has jumped right in by adding experienced sheltering personnel to the staff and developing modern SOPs, all while helping to plan the design and construction of our new facility, which will break ground in December of 2023. City ordinances, which have been long neglected, have seen updating under his lead. Programs are in the planning stages for Public Spay/Neuter assistance, TNR, Disaster Response, as well as many other special projects that will help to serve our community.

Robert fully supports training for the staff, and he was the driving force behind getting all of our Animal Control Officers and Supervisors certified as an Animal Control Officer by NACA. He has also encouraged supervisors to take the NACA Mental Health First Aid course, and Fear Free training modules, and plans to send staff out to conferences in the coming year.

While our Animal Services program is currently in a transitional phase, with Director Bryant in charge, we have already started to see improvements in the day-to-day running of the shelter.

“I was both surprised and honored when I was notified that I was chosen as NACA’s 2023 Animal Shelter Professional of the Year. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to NACA for selecting me. It’s truly an honor to be recognized. I have been working in animal welfare for more than 13 years and it’s a field I continue to be passionate about. I’m extremely grateful to all the support my family, friends, and colleagues have given me, and I look forward to many more years working towards a better future for both shelter pets and the people who care for them.”

Bill Lehman Memorial Award – Mike Fasano (Pasco, FL)
Pasco Tax Collectors Office

NACA is honored to name Mike Fasano as the 2023 recipient of the Bill Lehman Memorial Award. Mike was recognized for his hard work and compassion in animal welfare both in the state of Florida and in Pasco County, which nominated him for this award.

This award is given to an individual not directly employed in the animal care and control field, but who has shown an exceptional awareness of animal care and control-related matters, which merits distinction. The recipient will be recognized as a “friend” of animal care and control, for contributions and outstanding action that has helped further the positive image of animal care and control professionals through local, state, or national animal control associations.

Here is what his friends and colleagues had to share about his dedication, compassion, and hard work. Mike Fasano is a former Florida state senator and the current Tax Collector for Pasco County, FL. He has been a champion for animal welfare both in the state of Florida and in Pasco County. As early as 2012, the Florida lawmaker drafted legislation to provide protections for pets by creating a state-wide animal abuser registry. Senator Fasano titled SB 618 “Dexter’s Law,” after a black-and-white kitten was brutally beaten with a metal baseball bat by a woman and her two small children. Onlookers tried to rescue Dexter, but due to the severity of his injuries, Dexter had to be euthanized. Although the bill did not pass it did provide the groundwork for future passage of several local animal abuser registries including the one passed unanimously by the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners in 2017.

Again, in 2018, Mike stood with animal welfare organizations, legislators, and other citizens across the state to endorse a proposed amendment to the state constitution to ban dog racing in the state of Florida. Although the amendment was challenged by the Florida Greyhound Association, the Florida Supreme Court voted to allow the amendment to go on the ballot. On November 6, 2018, the voters of Florida passed the amendment with a 69% “yes vote” to ban commercial greyhound racing in the state.

Mike continues to be a strong supporter of animal welfare as the Pasco County Tax Collector. All his Tax Collector offices routinely highlight the Pasco County Animal Services (PCAS) Pet of the Week on their lobby televisions and share the PCAS shelter content on social media platforms. These features have resulted in adoptions and helped to spread public awareness of our shelter and animal welfare initiatives. The Tax Collector’s Office has also held fundraisers for Friends of Animal Services in 2018 and 2023, with both fundraisers raising over $11,000 each to support our nonprofit partner. This funding helped PCAS purchase new medical equipment and created a medical fund to help citizens with one-time emergency medical care for their pets.

“Mike Fasano exemplifies the spirit of Bill Lehman in his continual promotion and support of animal welfare organizations, his generosity in supporting non-profit rescues and animal friend groups, and his influence in legislative efforts to improve state law and local ordinances to protect pets.”

“I am truly honored to receive such a distinguished and important award from the NACA. To be recognized with the Bill Lehman Memorial Award is truly an honor to me and my fellow staff at the Pasco Tax Collectors office and during my tenure of 19 years in the Florida Legislature. All who have been extremely helpful with the successful work and care for our animals.”

 

 

Diane Lane Memorial Award – Jennifer Sutton (Stratford, CT)
Stratford (Connecticut) Animal Rescue Society

NACA is honored to name Jennifer Sutton as the 2023 recipient of the Diane Lane Memorial Award. Jennifer was recognized for her hard and compassionate work with the Stratford (Connecticut) Animal Rescue Society, STARS program.

This award is for outstanding volunteer service. The nominee selected to win this award is someone who is not directly employed in the animal care and control field but serves in a volunteer capacity within the animal care and control field or other animal welfare-related activities. Those nominated will have demonstrated exceptional dedication or performed outstanding work far beyond the volunteer position’s requirements.

Here is what her friends and colleagues had to share about her dedication, compassion, and hard work.

“The last 9 years it has been an honor to know and work with Jen. After reading the history of this award and
learning a bit more about Diane Lane, I realized Jen personifies Diane’s values. Jen, too, is always running off
to be with animals. While her dedication to our mission is undeniable, it is truly her consistently outstanding
performance far beyond volunteer responsibilities or expectations that make her an excellent nominee.”

“She has been a dedicated volunteer at Stratford Animal Control since October 2013.
Jennifer undertook a CT to Florida journey to bring our Baloo (a huge Cain Corso dog) to his forever
home. These dogs need a very special owner…one who understands their needs and temperament. The
gentleman willing to adopt Baloo is well known to Stratford Animal Control as having had these dogs
before and has been a successful adopter in the past. Just one problem – he lives in Florida now! There
was no way this dog could have tolerated a plane trip, so he needed to hitch a ride. Jennifer, being
familiar with the dog and knowing his needs, volunteered to take him, and successfully brought Baloo
to his new home. She made this wonderful happy ending happen!”

“I’ve volunteered with Jenn for a little over a year now and I can’t think of anyone else who’s gone as
above and beyond as Jenn. We had a dog who got an AWFUL diagnosis from the vet which pretty much
stated he didn’t have much time left to live and his cancer could kill him at any moment. Out of the
kindness of Jenn’s heart, she adopted him and took him into her home with her other dogs so he could
live the final moments of his life in a loving home, with friends.

She is constantly volunteering her time well above the two-hour weekly minimum that is asked of us
and is volunteering for everything that needs to be done at the shelter that’s beyond just obedience
training and dog walking that we originally signed up for. Just last week she spent 4 hours cutting the
weeds and vines out of the dog pens so that we can take the dogs out into the area without any
problems.”

When we asked Jennifer about her role, this is what she had to share with us “I am surprised, grateful, and extremely honored to have been nominated for, and chosen by the NACA, to receive this award. I also wantto thank my amazing STARS family of volunteers and ACOs. I’ve been a volunteer with STARS at StratfordAnimal Control for 10 years and both the ACOs and volunteers are a compassionate and supportive group who dedicate their time to advocating for the animals in their care and getting them placed in good homes.
They make our volunteer program so successful by always being open to new ideas for education,
enrichment, training, and fundraising for our shelter animals. My passion for working with animals was
reignited when I adopted my first 2 rescues, Jazzy and Roxie, and that led me to want to help other dogs by
starting volunteering. I realize I can’t take them all home, (although a few more have come through my
doors since those 2) but if I can spend time taking photos, adding enrichment, love, exercise, and some
training to their shelter time, it will decrease their kennel stress while increasing their chances of getting
adopted. Feeling that I played a small part on their journey to a new life, and then seeing updates or getting
visits from them living their best lives with their forever families, is the greatest reward of all!!”

 

Outstanding Animal Care and Control Award – Washington County Animal Services (Hillsboro, OR)

NACA is honored to name the Washington County Animal Services as the 2023 Animal Control Agency of the Year. This prestigious accolade is a testament to your outstanding contributions, dedication, and exceptional service in the field of animal care and control. Here is what the Oregon Animal Control Council had to share about Washington County Animal Services. “WCAS, under the exceptional leadership of Manager Randall Covey, stands as a shining exemplar of dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of animals in our community. Randall Covey, with over 37 years of invaluable service in Animal Control and Welfare in both Alaska and Oregon, has earned a reputation as one of the most helpful and recognizable figures in our field. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping WCAS into the exceptional agency it is today. One of WCAS’s most remarkable qualities is its consistently high level of community support. Through innovative outreach programs, educational initiatives, and active engagement with residents, they have fostered a deep sense of community involvement and responsibility towards animals.”

WCAS’s field team, led by their exceptional Field Supervisor Stacy Smejkal, has set a standard for all regional animal services agencies to aspire to. Their dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts to protect and rescue animals in distress have undoubtedly saved countless lives and set a benchmark for excellence.Furthermore, WCAS’s shelter operations and staff have consistently demonstrated efficiency and success. Their commitment to providing shelter, medical care, and adoption services for animals in need is nothing short of exceptional. Their tireless efforts have led to countless animals finding loving forever homes. Notably, WCAS is acutely aware of the importance of staying up to date with the latest training and best practices in the field. Their participation in and contributions to statewide training programs are a testament to their commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.

Washington County is the second largest county in Oregon with a population of over 600,000 people. WCAS provides services for an estimated 145,000 dogs and 115,000 cats and their owners in an area that encompasses 727 square miles. Services include caring for stray animals and helping lost pets get back home; transferring adoptable animals to community partners to find new homes; licensing dogs; investigating animal abuse and neglect; protecting the community from dangerous animals; and offering resources and educating the community on how to best live with pets.

“We are humbled by this national recognition,” Covey said. “More than anything, I’m so proud of our amazing team, all who work tirelessly every day to provide the best possible care for animals in need – and their humans – in our community.”

Outstanding State Association Award – North Carolina Animal Federation (North Carolina)

NACA is honored to name the North Carolina Animal Federation (NCAF) as the 2023 State Association of the Year! This prestigious recognition is a testament to their outstanding contributions, dedication, and exceptional leadership in the field of animal care and control.

The State Association of the Year Award underscores the remarkable impact the state association has made on the welfare of animals, agencies, and officers in the state of North Carolina. Their commitment, hard work, and innovative approaches have set a shining example for others to follow.

NCAF is actively involved in supporting the animal welfare professionals of North Carolina through legislativeadvocacy, sharing of best practice standards, providing training in the areas of both animal control and animal sheltering and so much more.

Most recently NCAF participated in several initiatives surrounding much-needed updates to the NC Animal Welfare Act, which serves as the rules and regulations for the operation of animal sheltering facilities in the state. The NCAF Board participated in multiple feedback sessions and subsequent discussions with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services- Animal Welfare Section to help ensure that the shelter’s voices were being heard as part of the revision process.

NCAF has also helped to prioritize training that supports the mental health and well-being of the individuals working in this industry. The organization has hosted several compassion fatigue training courses as well as summits and virtual discussions that provide a safe space for shelter leadership and frontline staff to discuss the unique challenges they are facing daily.

This award not only celebrates the collective achievements but also highlights the transformative influence they have had on our profession. Their leadership serves as an inspiration, fostering excellence and driving positive change in animal care and control practices.

“The North Carolina Animal Federation is truly honored to be selected by NACA as the 2023 State Association of the Year! NCAF is committed to advancing animal welfare and leadership in this field. We are working to unite animal welfare professionals, elevate leadership, and enact positive legislative change for the animals in our state. We sincerely appreciate NACA’s recognition and the support of the animal welfare community in North Carolina.”

About NACA
The National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA) is a non-profit organization committed to setting the
standard of professionalism in animal welfare and public safety through training, networking, and advocacy.
NACA was formed in 1978 to assist its members to perform their duties in a professional manner while
upholding the principles of the human–animal bond. Animal care and control professionals perform a variety
of services and are often a vital connection between people, animals, and the environment. NACA works to
support animal care and control professionals by providing standardized training, resources and setting the
standard for animal welfare field services. nacanet.org
Petco Foundation

Petco Foundation

by | Feb 12, 2021 | Blog, News, Press

The National Animal Care & Control Association wants to recognize the support we have received from Petco Love. Petco Love has made a commitment to NACA for the next three years totaling $225,000 in funding support. The Petco Foundation has been a longtime supporter of NACA and the professionals working the frontlines of their communities every day.