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Breckenridge names new animal control supervisor; officials report higher adoptions and expanded procedures
Summary
The Breckenridge City Commission heard an animal control update, introduced new supervisor Steve Jennings and discussed facility repairs, vaccination protocols, increased adoptions and more enforcement and court involvement.
The Breckenridge City Commission on Jan. 7 introduced Steve Jennings as the city’s new animal control supervisor and heard a report from law enforcement and animal-control staff describing increased adoptions, new standard operating procedures and recent facility repairs.
City officials said Jennings, who the chief described as having more than 30 years of leadership experience, has begun writing policies and procedures for intake, vaccination protocols and cleaning routines. The chief said that cleaning and consistent intake procedures are priorities because staff cannot always predict the types of animals they will receive and must manage disease risk.
The chief said the shelter has increased adoptions and transfers through partnerships with the Humane Society and other animal organizations; recent activity included at least 10 dogs placed in a single week. Staff said greater adoptions have reduced euthanasia. The chief added that the city is using folders for each animal to document identity, owner contact and medical status, and that staff are increasing social-media postings to reunite animals with owners.
Officials reported infrastructure work at the facility, including new dog beds, repaired indoor and outdoor kennel doors, plumbing fixes and other maintenance to reduce recurring costs. The chief said some original kennel materials were easily damaged and required replacement.
Commissioners asked about calls for service; the chief said calls have increased “about 10%,” citing radio traffic and joint responses with police and code enforcement when cases raise criminal or habitability issues. The chief said staff have asked the courts to pursue cases for dogs whose behavior or owner noncompliance may result in animals being declared vicious or dangerous.
The chief and Jennings said the department will continue to bring periodic updates to the commission. No formal action was taken on the report.
