County Commission Honors Broward Animal Control Officers During National Appreciation Week

by Sharon Aron Baron April 16, 2026

by Sharon Aron Baron April 16, 2026 2 minutes read

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The Broward County Commission recognized the work of its Animal Control Officers during National Animal Care and Control Officers Appreciation Week. {BCAC}

Broward County is recognizing the work of its Animal Control Officers during National Animal Care and Control Officers Appreciation Week, observed April 12–18.

Commissioner Beam Furr requested a proclamation honoring the Animal Control Officer Division, also known as the Field Services Team, for its role in protecting both residents and animals across the county.

Over the past year, officers with Broward County Animal Care responded to more than 13,100 service calls. Those included more than 800 animal bite investigations, over 900 responses involving sick or injured animals, and more than 1,100 animal cruelty investigations.

“Broward County Animal Care plays a vital role in protecting public safety and supporting the well-being of our communities,” Furr said. “Our Animal Control Officers handle complex, often critical situations every day—from urgent public safety calls to animal welfare investigations—with professionalism and accountability.”

Animal Control Officers serve on the front lines of public safety and animal welfare, responding to emergencies, investigating cruelty cases, and educating residents. Service requests can be initiated by calling 311.

“Our Animal Control Officers are more than responders—they are protectors, educators, and advocates for those who cannot speak for themselves,” said Doug Brightwell, director of Broward County Animal Care. “Every call they answer represents a commitment to public safety, compassion, and accountability.”

The department works closely with multiple law enforcement and municipal agencies to address animal-related incidents, including the Fort Lauderdale Police Department’s Animal Crimes Response Team, the Broward Sheriff’s Office, and local agencies in cities such as Coral Springs, Margate, Sunrise, Hollywood, Davie, and Pompano Beach.

Broward County’s Animal Control Officers serve county-wide and address complex and critical situations with residents and pets.
Photo By: AJ Shorter Photography

National Animal Care and Control Officers Appreciation Week highlights the critical role these professionals play in maintaining public health, safety, and compliance with animal care standards.

For more information, residents can contact Broward County Animal Care at 954-357-9567 or email AnimalCareFieldServices@broward.org.

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Sharon Aron Baron

Editor of Talk Media and writer for Coral Springs Talk. CST was created in 2012 to provide News, Views, and Entertainment for the residents of Coral Springs and the rest of South Florida.