“Where enforcement meets compassion.”
Friends of Animal Control is a community-powered support system that stands beside Animal Control Officers (ACOs), not behind them.
What Makes It Different
Most groups say: “Save the animals.”
Friends of Animal Control says:
“Support the system that protects them.”
That means:
- Standing with officers, even when it’s unpopular
- Helping the public understand the “why”
- Solving root problems (overpopulation, access, education)
It exists to:
- Humanize the badge
- Support the officer
- Protect the animal
- Educate the public
1. Community Support Arm
- Helps families comply instead of punishing them
- Provides:
- Pet food assistance
- Vaccinations
- Spay/neuter vouchers
- Microchips & ID tags
- Steps in before a citation becomes a surrender
2. Rapid Response Network
- When ACOs are overwhelmed, Friends step in:
- Transport animals
- Locate fosters
- Assist with emergency cases
- Acts as the “extra hands” ACOs rarely have
3. Public Education & Outreach
- School visits, community events, workshops
- Teaches:
- Responsible ownership
- Bite prevention
- Why laws exist (not just what they are)
4. Reunification & Prevention Focus
- Lost pets don’t enter the system—they go home
- Microchip scanning, social media blasts, flyer teams
- Goal: Keep pets out of shelters whenever possible
This is where enforcement meets empathy.
Fixin The Coast is honored to serve as a “Friends of Animal Control” organization—standing alongside Animal Welfare Professionals by providing financial support, essential resources, and meaningful opportunities for continued learning.
We are committed to elevating the profession through access to ongoing education, skill development, and leadership tools, ensuring those in the field feel equipped, valued, and supported in the critical work they perform every day.
By fostering stronger connections between animal control agencies and the communities they serve, we help build trust, enhance public safety, and promote better outcomes for both animals and the professionals dedicated to their care.
As part of this commitment, Fixin The Coast proudly established its first Animal Control Appreciation Day, and has since hosted second and third annual events—each expanding in reach and impact.
- The second annual event was held in conjunction with an in-person training session, reinforcing the organization’s dedication to professional development.
- The third annual event brought together nonprofit animal rescues across Harrison County, strengthening collaboration, expanding networks, and ultimately improving outcomes for more animals than ever before.
These efforts reflect a deep commitment to recognizing the dedication, resilience, and compassion of those serving on the front lines of animal welfare—while continuing to build a stronger, more unified animal welfare community.
ANIMAL CONTROL APPRECIATION EVENTS
Animal Control Rescues & TNR (Trap, Neuter, RETURN)
Partnering with Animal Control to help out with orphaned, injured, or sick homeless cat communities.
Animal Welfare Centers
How the Animal Welfare Center Supports the Community
Life doesn’t always give us time to plan—especially in moments of crisis. The Animal Welfare Center exists to provide a safe, short-term solution when pets and people need immediate help.
Operated by the local police departments, these centers offer 24/7 access at no cost as a service to the community—ensuring that no animal is left without care during urgent or unexpected situations.
If you’ve lost a pet:
You can be reunited quickly by contacting dispatch and meeting with Animal Control or a police officer at any time, day or night.
If you’ve found a pet:
Animal Control will scan for a microchip, work to locate the owner, and provide temporary care while honoring the standard stray hold period.
In both cases, there are no fees required—because helping families and animals reconnect is the priority. Donations to Fixin The Coast are always appreciated and go directly toward supporting animals in YOUR city, that have a need.
Beyond lost and found situations, the Animal Welfare Center can be a lifeline during difficult moments, such as:
- A sudden hospitalization with no one available to care for your pets
- A car accident where your pet was with you
- A house fire or emergency displacement
- The unexpected passing of a loved one, leaving pets temporarily without care
When space allows, Animal Control may be able to provide short-term assistance—offering peace of mind while you navigate challenging circumstances.
This is community care in action: neighbors helping neighbors, ensuring that pets remain safe while families find their footing again.
How the Animal Welfare Center Supports First Responders
These centers also play an important role in supporting Animal Control Officers and local law enforcement. Animal Control is considered a First Responder according to National Animal Care and Control Association: See this link for the First Responders Position Statement.
By providing a nearby, climate-controlled space for animals, officers can respond more efficiently—spending less time transporting animals long distances and more time serving the community. It allows for quicker intake, safer handling, and a faster return to duty, especially during high-demand or after-hours situation
DONATE TO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ANIMAL WELFARE CENTER -Visit this link to make a donation through Zeffy.
