On any given day, Cedar Rapids Animal Care and Control may be home to stray dogs, surrendered cats, guinea pigs, rabbits and even the occasional goat or bearded dragon. But beyond the kennels and adoption rooms lie a mission rooted not just in animal care but in public safety and education.
“We want every animal to get adopted,” said Michelle Timm, animal control officer and lead animal care technician “but the bigger picture is public safety and public education.”
Timm, who has worked in animal control for over 13 years, explained that the department does more than simply house stray animals. Officers also educate residents about the city’s animal code and responsible pet ownership. Rather than removing animals from homes, the goal is to prevent neglect and unsafe conditions before they occur…