División de Servicios para Animales del Condado de Orange
2769 Conroy Rd. Orlando, FL 32839
Contacto: Vanessa Bouffard (407) 254-9141

Para su Comunicación Inmediata

 
Officers Are Honored During October Ceremony with the Good Citizenship Award for Case Involving Monkeys

Orlando, Fla. – Animal Services Officers were recognized by The Orlando Police Department during the October Award Ceremony with the Good Citizenship Award.  Animal Services Officers responded to an unusual call on August 15, 2009 when the Orlando Police Department requested assistance to contain several monkeys and other domestic pets.  Animal Services Officers don't typically respond to wild animal calls, however this was a special request because medical personnel were unable to assist the owners, who appeared unconscious.  As Officers entered the home, they discovered a Spider Monkey guarding his two deceased owners. 

Senior Animal Services Officer, Charles Griffin, Animal Services Officers Sheila Collar, Megan Smulski and Animal Care Officer, Nicole McKenzie safely removed three monkeys, four cats, 10 exotic birds, and 11 dogs from the residence.  "Our Officers sometimes encounter situations for which they are not formally trained," said Field Operations Program Manager, Wendy Myshrall.  "Quick thinking, professionalism and teamwork lead to the successful trapping of the animals, thus allowing OPD to conduct their investigation."

Animal Services Officers are often undervalued in the community.  They are seen as "dog catchers" when in reality their job is to ensure the safety of citizens and animals.  This award is symbolic of all the relationships the agency is forming to fulfill its mission and vision.  After receiving the award, humbled Officers called their efforts, "just another day on the job."

About Orange County Animal Services
Orange County Animal Services is one of Central Florida's largest pet rescue and adoption centers.  Last year alone, Animal Services received close to 24,000 animals at its shelter. For 40 years, the agency's mission has been to protect the citizens and animals of Orange County.  Its vision is to give abandoned and neglected pets a second chance to live long and healthy lives in safe, loving homes.  For more information please visit www.ocnetpets.com.

###