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New leaders spotlight volunteers and foster programs to keep pets with families
Summary
Pasco County Animal Services leaders highlighted a strong volunteer base and described outreach to groups such as the fire department to expand foster caregiving options for residents with irregular schedules.
Assistant Director Samantha Blixt said Pasco has a "really strong, volunteer base," describing volunteers as central to daily operations and community support. Director Gary Herrero gave an example of outreach to the fire department, suggesting that employees with irregular schedules can serve as rotating foster caregivers: staff provide photos and updates during off-duty periods and return the animal after their shift cycle.
Both leaders said the department aims to be a community resource rather than a collection point, prioritizing prevention, education, and programs such as pet licensing, rescue coordination and foster support to reduce shelter intake and reunite animals with families.
