Submitted by: Rachael Borelli, Assistant Director, County Animal Services

At County Animal Services, our mission is to protect the welfare of both animals and people in our community. One powerful example of this is the story of Eagle, a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois who found hope and healing thanks to the dedication of our officers and veterinary team.

While on an unrelated investigation, Animal Services Lt. N. Harrington noticed Eagle with an open, necrotic wound on her right hind leg. It quickly became clear that Eagle was in urgent need of medical attention. Her owner refused both veterinary care and the option to surrender her. To protect Eagle from further neglect, Animal Services pursued a court-ordered seizure to get her the emergency care she needed. 

Donations to the Spirit Veterinary Medical Fund were used for Eagle’s emergency surgery.  Although her leg couldn’t be saved, the operation gave Eagle a new lease on life. Following procedure, Eagle’s personality transformed. Once fearful and withdrawn, she is now more trusting, curious, and ready to engage with people again.

This story is one of many that reflect how County Animal Services safeguards animals from abuse and neglect. Since its establishment, County Animal Services has helped  countless animals who have suffered, from those abandoned in dangerous conditions to pets relinquished because their owners could no longer provide the care they required.

Eagle is continuing to heal and is expected to be available for adoption soon. Her story is a reminder of why we do what we do: ensuring that no animal suffers in silence and that our community remains a safe and compassionate place for all residents, two-legged and four-legged alike.