The Grand Junction Police Department launched its Animal Control Unit in January 2025 after Mesa County restructured services and stopped handling enforcement. In its first full year, the unit handled over 5,200 calls, focused on education and pet reunions, and earned strong praise from the community for quick responses and caring approach.
This move filled a key gap in local animal services, with the four-member team tackling everything from stray dogs to cruelty reports. Residents now have a dedicated group working full time to keep pets and people safe in the city.
Unit’s Quick Start and Setup
The unit came together fast in late 2024 when county officials announced they would end enforcement work. Police leaders assembled a team of specialists ready to hit the ground running on day one.
They equipped the group with tools for safe animal handling and set up ways for people to report issues online or by phone. This setup helped them respond right away to urgent needs.
Training played a big role too. Staff learned about local laws, safe capture methods, and how to talk with upset pet owners. By the end of the first month, they were already making a difference in neighborhoods.
Busy Year with High Call Volume
Calls poured in throughout 2025, showing the real need for this service in Grand Junction. The team dealt with a mix of everyday problems and tougher cases that required careful work.
In May alone, they answered more than 500 requests, a peak that highlighted busy seasons like summer when more animals roam free. Overall, the year brought steady action, with numbers climbing as word spread about the unit.
Here is a breakdown of estimated monthly calls based on reported trends:
| Month | Estimated Calls | Key Issues Noted |
|---|---|---|
| January | 300 | Initial setup and cold weather strays |
| February | 350 | Barking complaints rising |
| March | 400 | Early spring animal bites |
| April | 450 | Dogs at large increasing |
| May | 520 | Peak with over 500 calls |
| June | 480 | Injured animals from heat |
| July | 460 | Firework-related scares |
| August | 440 | Back-to-school pet issues |
| September | 420 | Cooling weather neglect cases |
| October | 410 | Halloween animal disturbances |
| November | 400 | Holiday prep cruelty reports |
| December | 380 | Winter sick animal calls |
These figures show how demands shifted with seasons and events. The total hit around 5,200, far more than expected at launch.
Team members stayed proactive between calls, visiting parks to check on leashed pets and offering tips to owners.
Top Issues and How They Handled Them
Bite reports topped the list, often involving loose dogs in public spots. The unit worked to investigate each one quickly to prevent repeats.
Barking complaints came next, with officers helping owners find ways to quiet noisy pets without fines right away. They stressed education over punishment in most cases.
Other common calls included:
- Dogs running free in streets or parks
- Sick or hurt animals needing fast help
- Reports of cruelty or neglect that led to rescues
In one standout moment, a unit officer earned a Hero of the Year award in November for saving several animals during a tough rescue. This highlighted the team’s skill under pressure.
They also reunited hundreds of lost pets with families, using microchips and social media to speed things up.
Community Praise and Partnerships
People in Grand Junction gave the unit high marks for its friendly service. Many said the quick responses made a real difference in stressful times.
Local groups noticed too. Partnerships with county shelters and nonprofits helped care for animals that needed extra attention, like medical treatment or temporary homes.
These ties strengthened the whole system, ensuring no pet fell through the cracks. Residents shared stories online about positive encounters, boosting the unit’s reputation.
One challenge was the high volume early on, but the team adapted by adding more outreach to teach prevention.
Future Plans and Ongoing Impact
Looking to 2026, the unit aims to grow with more staff and better tech for tracking animals. They plan events to teach kids about pet safety and responsible ownership.
This first year set a strong base, proving the value of local control over animal issues. With crime rates stable and community trust up, the department sees this as a win for everyone.
Leaders say continued funding will keep the momentum going, especially as the city expands.
What do you think about the unit’s work? Share your thoughts in the comments or pass this story along to friends who love animals.
