DeKalb County Animal Enforcement Services members spoke at the Sept. 10 Tucker Police Precinct virtual meeting, outlining their mission of caring for and protecting all animals across the county.
Training officer Cameron Palmer and senior animal enforcement officers Sierra Jackson said their duties expand far beyond just catching stray dogs and cats.
The office offers free vaccinations, free chipping and spay/neuter vouchers for DeKalb County pet owners, as well as investigating and protecting animals against inhumane treatment.
The two also described the Trap-Neuter-Return Feral Cat program that helps reduce the feral population. Once a cat is captured, it is transported to the vets for spaying or neutering services. The animal’s ear is clipped to indicate it has been processed, and it is returned to its original territory.
Palmer and Jackson urged the public to report suspected cruelty to its hotline at (404) 294-2996 X2. Tips can be made anonymously. The cruelty hotline and service request form submissions are monitored Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
However, there are other services, like incessant/nuisance barking concerns that are not handled by animal enforcement. Those experiencing those issues can call Code Enforcement Division at (404) 687-3700 or codeenforce@dekalbcountyga.gov.
Services provided by Animal Enforcement include:
- Dog bites
- Injured animals
- Cruelty or neglect of animals
- Dangerous or vicious animals
- Dog and/or cockfighting
- Loose animals
- Leash law violations
- Welfare check
- License/rabies vaccination violations
“Our typical call answer time in DeKalb is much better than Fulton County,” Palmer said. “It seems like a long time after you call, but remember we have the entire county to cover.”
The two also discussed the upcoming DeKalb County Department Doggie Splash Pawlooza, which will be held on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Midway Park Pool, 3181 Midway Road, in Decatur.
This year’s event will include a dog swimsuit contest, games, music and more. Prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place winners.
Admission is $5 per dog to swim. All proceeds will fund enhancements for the Brookside and Mason Mill dog parks. Owners must arrive with their dogs on a leash and provide proof of current vaccinations and rabies tag.
Attendees who want to register for the event can do so in advance or register in person at any recreation center. There are several stipulations for participation, which are outlined on the county’s website.
In other news, online attendees were encouraged to attend a safety fair and community outreach event to be held Sept. 21 in the Big Lots parking lot, 3358 Chamblee-Tucker Road, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Police personnel will be on hand to give out free items and meet the public.
The next virtual meeting will be held on Oct. 9 and feature speakers from the DeKalb County Police Traffic Specialist Unit.
