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Animal Services reports steady adoptions, outlines staffing needs and outreach plans
Summary
Animal Services told the committee it is at adoption capacity, reported live release rates of 84% for dogs and 99% for cats, and said it is hiring kennel staff and seeking an outreach coordinator; upcoming events include an April 25 vaccination and microchip clinic.
Ashley Herr, representing Berrien County Animal Services, presented the department's quarterly report at the administration committee meeting on March 26, 2026. Herr said the adoption floor is full and the department is operating near capacity. "Live release rates are 84% for dogs and 99% for cats," she reported, and the department has had no positive rabies incidents so far this year.
Herr told the committee the department still has open kennel positions and is looking to hire an outreach coordinator to support adoptions and community engagement. Staff recently participated in Michigan Pet Alliance Dog Behavior and Handling training and will hold a staff training session with Stay & Obey on March 28 for handling difficult dogs. Herr listed upcoming community-facing events including a vaccination and microchip clinic on April 25 and a staff and volunteer appreciation cookout planned for May. She also noted there are "5 permanent and several temporary kennels open," underscoring continuing space and staffing needs.
