Field Service Duties and Priorities
In determining enforcement priorities, several factors are taken
into consideration such as public safety, animal safety and
available resources. The following is a list of some of those
services provided by enforcement officers that are considered
priorities:
Dangerous and Vicious Animal/Bites: Immediately
responding to reports that an animal has either bitten a person or
is menacing the public.
Animal Cruelty: Checking on the health and well
being of animals reportedly being neglected or physically
abused.
Responding to Requests for Service: Assisting
other agencies in impounding or identifying the location of
dangerous or vicious animals; enforcing animal-related ordinances;
investigating complaints
(leash law, noise), impounding stray and surrendered animals; and
providing customer assistance and service.
Patrolling for Stray Animals: Impounding stray
animals before they can become a threat to the residents of
Healdsburg or to themselves on the streets or neighborhoods.
Public Education: Taking a proactive approach
in teaching and encouraging responsible pet ownership. Promote the
importance of the leash law, population growth, and pet licensing
through a combination of enforcement and education. Gaining
voluntary compliance is the goal of any effective enforcement
program. In order to achieve this, the public must be knowledgeable
not only of ordinances but of the consequences of noncompliance as
well. Information regarding animal care and maintenance is
available from the Animal Control Officer.
Performance Measures
One of Animal Control's top priorities is to attempt to reduce
animal related violations and achieve an increase in voluntary
compliance. This goal will be achieved by vigorous enforcement,
public education and positive reinforcement for responsible pet
owners who abide by the law.
Genie
HAS Alumni Class 3/12