FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 28, 2005
For additional information contact:
Amy Morris, Community Relations Coordinator
616.632.7110
Kent County Health Department’s Animal Control Licensing Enforcement Officer Ready to Hit the Streets
(Grand Rapids, Mich.) – Kent County residents will notice a new face in their neighborhoods this spring. Kent County Health Department’s new Animal Control Licensing Officer is ready to go on patrol.
The Licensing Officer will patrol the neighborhoods and outlying areas of Kent County investigating animal related issues such as licensing violations and complaints. Areas with an increased number of animal bite or licensing violations will be of particular interest along with public areas where owners are more inclined to unleash their dogs.
“The goal of the Licensing Officer is to help reinforce the concept of responsible pet ownership and promote public safety. This includes ensuring that all dogs are properly vaccinated, licensed and under their owner’s control at all times,” said Cathy Raevsky, Kent County Health Department’s Administrative Health Officer.
Owners in violation of licensing and leash requirements may face monetary fines ranging from $20-$300 depending on the offense and number of previous citations. Repeat offenses could result in court appearances or with the impounding of their dog.
In Kent County, dogs ages four months and older are required to be licensed. Although the licensing deadline was March 1, 2005, residents are still able to obtain licenses at the Kent County Animal Shelter at 711 Ball Avenue NE, but will be subject to late fees. New dog owners may obtain licenses without fines if the license is sought within the first 30 days of ownership. Proof regarding the length of ownership must be provided by the owner.
The Kent County Animal Shelter is a unit of the Kent County Health Department’s Environmental Health Division and employs eight Animal Control Officers, an Animal Control Supervisor and one part time Licensing Enforcement Officer.
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KCHD has been in the business of providing health services to the whole
of Kent County since 1931. The Health Department is home to nearly 325
employees including public health nurses, sanitarians, health educators,
technicians, public health administrators and the Kent County Animal Shelter.
The Health Department operates five satellite clinics located in Wyoming,
Kentwood, Rockford, Sheldon Complex, and the Westside of Grand Rapids.
To learn more about our services visit www.accesskent.com/health
