Jason Futch
reporter2.riverbendnews@gmail.com
After months of uncertainty regarding the future of animal control services in Hamilton County, the Hamilton County Sheriff ’s Office has agreed to take control for the first time ever. The HCSO will implement the Animal Control division, effective Wednesday, Oct. 1, operating from two locations, one in Jasper and the other in Jennings at the former site of North Florida PAWS.
The division will be led by Animal Control Coordinator Megan Smith, who will oversee the operations. Assisting her is Heather Smith, who has been helping Megan with animal intake and care. Both have been working for local rescues for the past 10 years, helping strays and rescued animals. Both have a passion for animal welfare.
Megan, originally from Polson, Mont., came to Hamilton County after meeting her husband in Okinawa, Japan, while serving with the United States Marine Corps. After settling in Hamilton County in 2013, she wanted to do something to help animals, which led to her and Heather working with local rescue organizations. When not working with the rescues, she took on the role of activities director in a 120-bed skilled nursing facility until recently, when she accepted the role of working with the division.
Heather’s background in animal services dates back to her participation in 4-H and veterinarian camps, where she learned more about helping animals, including both farm and domestic animals.
When the position for an animal control officer became available, Megan took the chance and applied for the job. “I have a passion for animal welfare and I’ve always wanted to serve the community in some way,” Megan said. “And if I could rescue every animal, I would.” From there, she was hired by HCSO and has received the appropriate licenses to operate as an Animal Control Officer in the state.
Shortly after assuming the role, Megan asked Heather to serve as an animal control officer. “Megan was like, ‘Would you like to come volunteer to help me?’ I absolutely fell in love with the idea and joined the team,” Heather said.
As she takes on the role, Megan said there is much work which will need to be done. “I have confidence in our team and the sheriff’s office that we can build a firm foundation which will provide success not only for the animals and their welfare, but also Hamilton County and its residents,” she said.
The idea for the HCSO to take on Animal Control for the county emerged in January, when the county administration asked Sheriff Brian Creech if the agency would assume the services for the first time. Agreeing to take on the role, Sheriff Creech said there would be grants and other available funding sources to help support the Animal Control division.
Sheriff Creech said the progression Megan and Heather have made during the transition has been excellent. “They still have some building to do, but we’re in a transition phase, and they’ve done more during this phase than what has been done in the last couple of years,” he said. “They are both committed to the efforts they’ve made.”
Several animals are available for adoption or foster care, while others are being assessed and prepared for eventual adoption. Waffles, a stray dog picked up in Jasper, was recently brought into the Jennings shelter, where she gave birth to an impressive 11 puppies. As she takes care of the puppies, each one will be prepped for adoption. When all 11 puppies are adopted out, Waffles will also be spayed and ready for adoption to a loving home.
Dalton, Dameon and Hooch are three of 13 dogs, along with cats and other animals, which were rescued following a criminal investigation into animal cruelty. The investigation stemmed from three individuals who were arrested for transporting a significant number of animals in the back of a U-Haul on Interstate 75 on Thursday, July 3. The animals were rescued by HCSO Animal Control and are currently up for adoption. One of the 13 are being fostered by the Thelma and Louise Dog Rescue.
While both shelters are at full capacity, the Jennings location is expected to expand, adding 25 kennels for dogs, which will help alleviate some of the stress its smaller location in Jasper is experiencing. The Hamilton Correctional Institute will be assisting in the project.
The HCSO intends to build a strong and sustainable foundation for the future, which includes improving internal operations, elevating service quality and fostering a culture of responsibility and respect throughout the department. “We recognize the concerns and challenges of the past,” Megan said. “Your voices have been heard, and we are working diligently to rebuild and maintain your trust.”
To contact the HCSO Animal Control division, call (386) 855-1323 or email Megan at msmith@hamiltonflsheriff.gov.