Washington County Animal Services named national agency of the year

For more than 25 years, the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA) has been recognizing individuals, agencies, organizations and state associations for their service within the animal care and control field.

NACA has named Washington County Animal Services (WCAS) in Hillsboro, OR as the 2023 Animal Control Agency of the Year. This prestigious accolade is a testament to WCAS’s outstanding contributions, dedication, and exceptional service in the field of animal care and control. This national award comes directly on the heels of WCAS receiving four awards from the Oregon Animal Control Council: Animal Control/Welfare Agency of the Year, Animal Control Officer of the Year, Shelter Employee of the Year, and a Lifetime Contribution Award for Randall Covey, manager of WCAS.

In their nomination of WCAS for the national award, Oregon Animal Control Council wrote, in part: “WCAS, under the exceptional leadership of Manager Randall Covey, stands as a shining exemplar of dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of animals in our community. One of WCAS's most remarkable qualities is its consistently high level of community support. Through innovative outreach programs, educational initiatives, and active engagement with residents, they have fostered a deep sense of community involvement and responsibility towards animals.”

“Washington County Animal Services was selected as the 2023 Agency of the Year because of their dedication and commitment to the well-being of animals and their dedication to building a more compassionate community, exemplifying the very essence of our mission,” NACA Executive Director Jerrica Owen said. “Their tireless efforts, innovation and dedication have set a standard of excellence that inspires us all. As they lead the way in animal services not only in Oregon but across the country, they remind us that compassion knows no boundaries.”

Washington County is the second largest county in Oregon with a population of over 600,000 people. WCAS provides services for an estimated 145,000 dogs and 115,000 cats and their owners in an area that encompasses 727 square miles. Services include caring for stray animals and helping lost pets get back home; transferring adoptable animals to community partners to find new homes; licensing dogs; investigating animal abuse and neglect; protecting the community from dangerous animals; and offering resources and educating the community on how to best live with pets.

“We are humbled by this national recognition,” Covey said. “More than anything, I’m so proud of our amazing team, all who work diligently every day to provide the best possible care for animals in need – and their humans – in our community.”

More information about NACA is available at www.nacanet.org. Information about WCAS can be found at www.WashingtonCountyPets.com.

Media Contact for NACA:
Jerrica Owen, Executive Director
[email protected]
619-551-9864

Media Contact for WCAS:
Wendy Gordon, PIO
[email protected]
503-849-9117