By Wickenburg Police Chief Pete Wingert

Animal control is one of those government services we don’t often talk about, but that every city must choose how to provide for its residents, including those of the four-legged variety.

After losing its animal control officer position in the recent recession, Wickenburg struggled to find a new model. Partnering with a local nonprofit proved successful until demand exceeded available kennel space. And without an animal control officer, uniformed police officers had to be taken off the street to handle animal control duties.

After a thorough review process, the Town Council in January chose Maricopa County Animal Care & Control as its new partner agency. Working together, the County and the Town developed an innovative system that relies on social media to give lost or stray dogs the best opportunity for a second chance.

Maricopa County animal control officers dispatched by the Wickenburg Police Department carry mobile phone cameras that are used to take pictures of corralled dogs. Within hours, the picture is received by WPD, posted on its Facebook page with the case number, and broadcast throughout the community.

Although only three months old, the program’s results to date have been outstanding: nearly all animals have either been returned to their owners or adopted by a loving family.

Visit WPD’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/wickenburgpd