The Brief
- During Tuesday’s Polk County Commission meeting, Commissioner Michael Scott of District 5 talked about the improvements he’s seen at the shelter.
- Scott noted that other improvements include improved food storage options, enhanced ventilation and improved air circulation among other things.
- Meanwhile, animal welfare advocates reiterated several of their requests, including a Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) program for cat colonies.
BARTOW, Fla. – For more than a year now, animal welfare advocates have been raising concerns about conditions at the Polk County Animal Control shelter. Now, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, which runs the shelter, is updating the community on the ongoing improvements made to the facility.
What’s new at the Polk Animal Shelter
What we know:
During Tuesday’s Polk County Commission meeting, Commissioner Michael Scott of District 5 talked about the improvements he’s seen at the shelter. He provided a photo of the outdoor enrichment play area for dogs, saying the Sheriff’s Office has added a pool, toys, and obstacle courses.
“I think, for lack of credit, the sheriff’s office does hear the concerns regarding some of the shelter improvements that are needed,” Scott said.
Scott noted that other improvements include:
- Moving food to a dedicated shed area rather than storing it on wooden pallets, which helps prevent rodents.
- Sanitizing the cat storage area daily to prevent cockroaches.
- Enhancing ventilation through new insulation and improved air circulation.
- Dedicating a washer and dryer specifically to washing bedding, blankets, and towels.
Regarding staffing, Scott added, “We’re still looking for a second vet, and we’re in the process of working with a veterinary college to recruit a vet for that position. We’ve also increased the allowable salary for it.”…