St. Mary’s County Honors Animal Control Officers During National Recognition Week

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — In a moment that typically draws smiles with a wagging tail or a curious cat, this year’s recognition of National Animal Care and Control Week in St. Mary’s County came without a four-legged guest—but not without heartfelt appreciation.

During the April 14 meeting, Commissioner President Randy Guy presented a proclamation recognizing April 12–18, 2026, as National Animal Care and Control Week, honoring the men and women who work daily to protect both animals and the community.

“We usually have the people bring up a dog, or a cat, or some kind of animal here,” Guy said with a smile, recalling past ceremonies. “We had a nice little dog last year.”

While no animals took center stage this time, the focus remained squarely on the evolving and often misunderstood role of animal control professionals. The proclamation highlighted the history of the field, noting that the “dog catching” profession, established in 1934, once carried a negative reputation due to the nature of the work. In 2012, the role was officially renamed to animal control officers, reflecting a broader mission centered on public safety, animal welfare and community support.

Today, that mission is evident in St. Mary’s County, where the Animal Control Division and Animal Adoption and Rescue Center work year-round to care for at-risk animals, prevent cruelty and connect pets with resources that keep them safe and healthy.

Heather Calligandes, the county’s newly appointed animal control supervisor, said she has already seen the team’s impact firsthand.

“I’ve been with the county for just about a month now, and I’m already really impressed with the professionalism and dedication to animal welfare from our team,” Calligandes said. “We’ve done some pretty big cases so far, and we have quite a few down the line.”

That dedication extends beyond responding to emergencies. Hollis Lampe, Animal Services Division manager, oversees both shelter operations and animal control and described the team as both hardworking and deeply committed.

“There are a bunch of characters over there who are dedicated to their jobs, and I’m really grateful to be a part of that team,” Lampe said.

County leaders emphasized that animal control officers are often called into some of the most difficult situations—cases involving neglect, abuse or injured animals—while also navigating the emotional realities faced by pet owners.

Jennifer Utz, director of emergency services, called it a “huge privilege” to work alongside the team.

“The work they do in our community is born in some of the most difficult situations you’ll ever face,” Utz said. “They are professionals. They’re dedicated, they work around the clock, and they’re an integral part of emergency services.”

Tina James, animal shelter operations supervisor, noted that the role of animal control goes far beyond enforcement—often focusing on keeping families and their pets together.

“Their goal is to keep animals in their homes,” James said. “They work pretty hard to coordinate efforts to deliver food to people in need, to provide resources through the shelter and to support programs like the monthly rabies clinic.”

The proclamation also recognized the collaboration between field officers, shelter staff and county leadership, highlighting a growing team that includes new officers actively responding to calls throughout the county.

As the commissioners formally declared the week of recognition, they urged residents to join in expressing gratitude for the compassion and commitment shown by animal control officers and support staff.

In a field that has transformed dramatically over the decades, St. Mary’s County’s animal care professionals continue to redefine their role—not just as responders, but as advocates, educators and lifelines for both animals and the people who love them.