List of Best Animal Control Officers in the U.S.

There are a lot of animal control officers who have shown to the public that they are excellent and are dedicated to their job. Their efforts and achievements have been recognized by various organizations and associations. If you are curious about the best animal control officers in the United States who have received awards in the past years, do not stop reading the post.

About Animal Control Officers

Animal control officers refer to professionals who are in charge of safeguarding the welfare of animals while at the same time ensuring public safety. They are the ones with commitment, compassion, and expertise in handling animal-related issues.

List of Best Animal Control Officers in the United States

For those who are looking for the best animal control officers in the United States, the list includes:

1. Lawrence Higginbottom (Memphis, Tennessee)

In 2021, the national Animal Care & Control Association or NACA named Lawrence Higginbottom as the Animal Control Officer of the Year. The organization rewarded him for his professionalism, compassion, and leadership in dealing with challenging situations that involved both animals and people. Besides, the man also played a big role in implementing a new software system that made the efficiency and accuracy of animal control operations in his city better.

2. Dany Flores-Lopez (Deerwood, Maryland)

Dany Flores-Lopez received the Humane Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by NACA in 2021. The woman was praised for her outstanding work in investigating and prosecuting animal cruelty cases and in educating the public and collaborating with other agencies. Plus, she also rescued and rehabilitated dozens of animals from hoarding and neglect situations.

3. Jessica Every (Land O’Lakes, Florida)

Jessica Every was awarded the Animal Care and Control Employee of the Year from NACA in 2021. She was praised for her hard work in providing animal care and shelter services. Aside from that, she was also recognized for her initiative and innovation in developing as well as in implementing several new programs and policies. Additionally, the woman also did a good job in increasing the live release rate and minimizing the euthanasia rate of animals in the United States.

4. Jacob Kamins (Corvallis, Oregon)

Jacob Kamins received the Bill Lehman Memorial Award by NACA in 2021. He was acknowledged for his effort as the first Animal Cruelty Deputy District Attorney in Oregon. He helped in prosecuting and convicting animal abusers and creating and supporting legislation and training programs that increased animal protection and welfare in his state.

5. Jennifer Smith (San Diego, California)

Jennifer Smith was awarded with the Outstanding State Association Award by NACA in 2021. She is the former president of the California Animal Control Directors Association or CACDA. The woman was the leader of the organization that promotes best practices, professional development, and legislative advocacy for animal control agencies in California. Apart from that, she also took part in establishing a coalition of animal welfare organizations called the California Animal Welfare Association or CalAnimals that has a mission to advance the field of animal care and protection.

6. Robert Jones (Denver, Colorado)

Robert Jones was the recipient of the Leader of the Year Award by NACA two years ago. The man was known as the director of the Denver Animal Protection. His jobs include overseeing the operations of the animal shelter, field services, and licensing programs in Denver. He was praised for his collaborative approach in improving the quality of life for both animals and people in his city. In addition, he was also credited for his innovative initiatives, including the Community Resource Center, the Trap Neuter-Return or TNR program, and the Pets for Life program.

7. Lisa Brown (Austin, Texas)

Lisa Brown was the winner of the Animal Care and Control Employee of the Year Award by NACA in 2021. This one was known as an animal protection officer who focused on cruelty investigations and emergency response. She was acknowledged for her bravery, skill, and compassion in dealing with complex and high-profile cases that involved animal abuse and neglect. Besides, she was also an important one in rescuing and recovering the animals affected by natural disasters, including when the Hurricane Harvey and Texas winter storm happened.

8. Samantha Rodriguez (Los Angeles, California)

Samantha Rodriguez is an experienced animal control officer who has become a light for abandoned and mistreated animals in Los Angeles. She is dedicated and offers innovative approaches to rescue and rehome animals.

9. Carlos Hernandez (Houston, Texas)

Carlos Hernandez is committed to improving animal welfare in Houston. He is known for his programs and initiatives that aimed at minimizing animal homelessness and promoting spaying or neutering.

10. Michael Carter (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Michael Carter is so dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals in distress in Philadelphia. His good job has earned him so many praises. Besides, his innovative strategies and commitment to animal welfare have influenced the community.

11. Emily Campbell (Denver, Colorado)

Emily Campbell is known for her passion for animal welfare as well as for her efforts in enforcing animal control laws. Her works have made Denver one of the best cities for both animals and people. Thanks to her dedication, everyone now knows the standard of education and community engagement.

12. Sarah Chang (New York City, New York)

Sarah Chang has patience and empathy that shine through in her efforts when handling urban wildlife and domestic animal cases. She never gets tired of advocating the owners of the pets about pet ownership.

13. Jamal Jackson (Atlanta, Georgia)

Jamal Jackson is known as an officer who rescues abused animals while raising awareness. His works have led to positive changes in Atlanta.

14. Maria Ramirez (Miami, Florida)

Maria Ramirez specialized in handling cases that involve exotic animals. She is the best in combating illegal exotic pet ownership in Miami, Florida. People know her name because she always does a good job in rescuing and rehabilitating endangered species.

15. David Nguyen (Seattle, Washington)

David Nguyen offers innovative programs that promote responsible pet ownership. Aside from that, he also has a compassionate approach to animal rescue, reducing the number of stray animals in Seattle. His dedication has earned him recognition from both animal welfare organizations and residents.

Bottom Line

These are the best animal control officers in the United States. These professionals try their best to protect and rescue animals while at the same time fostering harmonious communities. Their commitment to animal welfare is proof that everyone can make a good impact and take a part in safeguarding the well-being of animals across the United States.