Macomb County, MI
10/02/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/02/2025 12:01
Macomb County highlights progress and vision at State of Animal Care event
Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel and Animal Control Director Jeff Randazzo today spoke to the State of Macomb County Animal Care, spotlighting the department's history, major milestones and vision for the future. The event underscored the county's commitment to humane treatment of animals, responsible pet ownership and partnerships that make a difference in communities across Macomb.
"Macomb County Animal Care has gone from being just a shelter to becoming a place of hope," said Executive Hackel. "With a state-leading 95 percent save rate and programs that bring pets and families together, we're proving that compassionate care and community partnerships have an incredible impact on these animals and the joy they bring to people's lives. And this cannot happen without our dedicated staff, volunteers, partners and residents."
Originally built in 1958 and remodeled in 1981, the county's animal facility has undergone a dramatic transformation. Once known for high euthanasia numbers, it now stands as a model for modern animal welfare, boasting a 95% save rate. This achievement reflects not only a new philosophy of humane treatment but also a community-driven approach to animal care.
"Years ago, the reality here was very different," noted Randazzo. "Today, we are proud to say that Macomb County Animal Control is recognized as one of the most progressive shelters in the state. We're saving lives and building stronger, safer communities at the same time."
In the past year, Macomb County Animal Care achieved measurable success through programs and services designed to keep pets healthy and connected to their families:
"Macomb County Animal Care has gone from being just a shelter to becoming a place of hope," said Executive Hackel. "With a state-leading 95 percent save rate and programs that bring pets and families together, we're proving that compassionate care and community partnerships have an incredible impact on these animals and the joy they bring to people's lives. And this cannot happen without our dedicated staff, volunteers, partners and residents."
Originally built in 1958 and remodeled in 1981, the county's animal facility has undergone a dramatic transformation. Once known for high euthanasia numbers, it now stands as a model for modern animal welfare, boasting a 95% save rate. This achievement reflects not only a new philosophy of humane treatment but also a community-driven approach to animal care.
"Years ago, the reality here was very different," noted Randazzo. "Today, we are proud to say that Macomb County Animal Control is recognized as one of the most progressive shelters in the state. We're saving lives and building stronger, safer communities at the same time."
In the past year, Macomb County Animal Care achieved measurable success through programs and services designed to keep pets healthy and connected to their families:
- Pet adoptions: 960 pets found their forever homes
- Micro-chipped: 1,531 pets
- Pets vaccinated (Low-Cost Clinics): 4,188
- Intakes/impounds: 2,624
- Return to owner rate: 542 pets reunited with families
- Active volunteers: 30 community members providing time and care
- Licenses issued: 10,493
- Spay/neuter surgeries: 721
- Save rate: 95%
These statistics reflect both the growing demand for services and the department's dedication to meeting community needs.
Several signature programs were highlighted as key contributors to the shelter's success:
- MicroChip Connect - Expanded locations in Clinton Township, Roseville, Armada, and Shelby Township provide convenient microchipping services, helping lost pets get home faster.
- Low-cost vaccination clinics - Making preventive care affordable and accessible for thousands of pets each year.
- Return-to-owner initiative - Leveraging technology, outreach, and partnerships to increase the number of pets reunited with their families.
- Community outreach and education - From Snip Happens spay/neuter campaigns to family-friendly events like Trunk-or-Treat, Animal Care staff are engaging directly with residents to promote responsible ownership.
Macomb County Animal Care has also strengthened its collaboration with law enforcement and local governments. Current contracts with Roseville and St. Clair Shores demonstrate how regional partnerships can improve efficiency and expand services.
Behind the numbers are the people who make success possible - from the 30 active volunteers who walk dogs, socialize cats and assist at events, to the residents who open their homes to shelter pets. A short video, Macomb Adopts, was shared during the event to showcase adoption stories and the deep bond between animals and their new families.
Residents can make a difference in the following ways:
- Adopt - Give a shelter pet a second chance.
- Donate - Help fund programs, medical care, and outreach.
- Volunteer - Share time and skills with the shelter.
To learn more about services or contact Macomb County Animal Care directly, visit macombgov.org/animal-control.
Department:Animal Control
Type:
Press Release
Macomb County, MI published this content on October 02, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on October 02, 2025 at 18:01 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]