Animal Care and Control

In these challenging economic times, there are a number of county divisions that have experienced a greater demand in the services they provide. 

One example is the County’s Animal Care and Control Division (AC&C), which is trying to find ways to address the increase in animal population at its shelter.  Financial hardship is a growing reason why local pet owners are being forced to abandon their pets at local shelters.  Other common reasons are allergies, rental rules and potential problems with a new baby. 

Just recently, the shelter reported an unprecedented increase of purebred animals, which could provide an additional incentive for adoptions. 

The AC&C shelter accommodates up to 500 animals comfortably.  However, the agency reports that they must eventually euthanize 65 percent of the animals that arrive there.  Another 21 percent of the animals are adopted and eight percent are claimed by their owners. 

As a result of these disturbing statistics, AC&C is working diligently in their efforts to encourage residents to adopt a pet from their facility.  One incentive is a $100 voucher that is good for a spay or neuter procedure with participating veterinarians. 

AC&C also hosts an event called “Op Around the Clock” three times a year, providing 24-hour surgical marathons to spay and neuter cats at no charge.  The euthanasia statistics for cats far exceed those of dogs and these events are held to prevent unwanted births of kittens. 

AC&C is in need of volunteers and are always looking for “pet” foster parents to nurture orphaned, sick or injured animals until they can be adopted out.   You can also donate supplies such as towels and blankets, help educate the public about spay/neutering or assist with assorted tasks at the main shelter facility.  For information on adopting or volunteering, contact Elizabeth Harfmann at 561-233-1222 and/or visit http://www.pbcgov.com/publicsafety/animalcare.  

Please contact me if I can be of assistance or if you have any comments and/or suggestions.  I can be contacted at sabrams@pbcgov.org or at my office at 561-355-2204 (West Palm Beach) or 561-276-1220 (Delray Beach).  Also, please visit my Web site at http://www.pbcgov.com/countycommissioners/district4/ for updates and links to county divisions and other governmental agencies.

Sincerely yours,

Steven L. Abrams
Palm Beach County Commission
District IV