Community Engagement

Started in May of 2016, the shelter’s Community Action Team, abbreviated as CAT Team, targets high animal intake areas within Orange County. Animal Services Officers patrol on foot, striking up conversation with residents and providing educational materials to help resolve pet-related issues.

In 2017 the program was recognized by the Florida Animal Control Association and named “Outstanding Cooperative Achievement” for the year.

Learn more about Animal Services and receive guidance on resolving pet-related issues by scheduling a speaker from Animal Services at your homeowners’ association meeting or community group. Speaking arrangements typically span 30 minutes in length and can be geared toward the audience for the event. E-mail AnimalServices@ocfl.net for more information.

Animal Services offers educational programs for students grades three and higher. Programs can be geared toward the particular audience. The main topics per workshop are:

• Bite Prevention
• Responsible Pet Ownership
• Educational Jeopardy

Please e-mail AnimalServices@ocfl.net for more information.

Animal Services is proud to partner with local business to promote shelter pets. These programs also serve to highlight businesses within the community that align with the mission of helping pets in need. Business partnership programs include:

• Heartworm Disease Treatment Sponsorship – Businesses can opt to sponsor the heartworm treatment costs for a dog in need. Heartworm disease is a treatable condition but many prospective adopters are discouraged by the expense for treatment. Businesses can break down this barrier and help shelter dogs find loving, forever homes. Animal Services will highlight the sponsoring business both on the dog’s kennel and online.
• Dog and Cat Display – For businesses who would like a visual representation of their support for the shelter, a dog and cat display is available. These are currently featured in a number of restaurants, salons and offices throughout Orange County. Animal Services recommends a donation of $50 for an initial cost to help offset the cost of creating the materials.
• Donation Drive – Businesses can host an internal or external donation drive aiming to help gather supplies for the benefit of the shelter and its pets. Animal Services will typically highlight the participating business in social media mentions to help promote and then thank for the donation drive.

Businesses interested in participating in any number of these programs, or pitching another idea, are welcome to e-mail AnimalServices@ocfl.net for more information.

Bringing a group to Animal Services? Guided tours available for groups looking for educational and engaging visits to Animal Services. E-mail AnimalServices@ocfl.net for more information.