Since becoming an independent department in October 2005, Animal Services has made great strides to increase the number of animals saved, as well as improve the condition and care of the animals while at the shelter and public safety.

"It is a great honor and a testament of the dedication and hard work of our employees to have received these awards", said Dr. Sara Pizano, Animal Services Director.  "This award recognizes their tireless effort to save more lives and we hope it also encourages the community to get involved" added Dr. Pizano.

The criteria for the award included effective training programs for animal protection personnel, cruelty investigation programs, effective public education, and active involvement in the community and spay/neuter initiatives, as well as outreach, with the goal of reducing euthanasia and increasing quality adoptions.

Saving the lives of over 37,000 pets a year is a community effort and Animal Services urges the community to do the right thing: 

• Spay/neuter your pets.
• Microchip and identify your pets.
• Adopt a shelter pet.

Pet overpopulation is something we can control, but we need the community to make a difference.  Be part of the solution; spay/neuter your pets!

Miami-Dade Animal Services is responsible for enforcing Chapter V, as well as Florida Statutes 828, which deals primarily with animal cruelty issues.  Unlike private shelters that have limitations on the number of pets they accept, Animal Services accepts all dogs and cats. Last year, the shelter impounded more than 37,000 pets.  The goal at Animal Services is to reunite lost pets with their families or find life-long homes for as many animals as possible.  Related links: www.miamidade.gov/animals or call 311.