Sometimes, surprises are good. A recent visit to the George Lee Dunn Animal Shelter and Control Facility - Kansas City Kansas's city-run animal shelter - was indeed such a pleasant surprise.

Capt. Henry Horn, on special assignment from the Chief's Office as Director of KCK Animal Control (AC), had invited me to tour the facility located at 3301 Park Dr. and discuss recent physical and operational changes. Capt. Horn has instituted a number of positive changes, many of them recommended by the Animal Control Task Force in 2005. Other changes were made because he saw the need and moved forward with action.

The facility now has a new parking lot behind the building (this had been "in the works" for 12 years). An outdoor fenced area has been constructed that allows potential adopters to interact with an animal prior to adoption. Capt. Horn has also strengthened the security system, found space for a small staff training area, and repainted/resurfaced the animal holding areas. During my visit, the entire facility was very bright and clean.

Improvements in the shelter operations are even more exciting. All staff members are receiving ongoing training. AC has entered into an agreement with the Greater Kansas City Humane Society to alter all adopted animals. Dogs are being assessed for temperament prior to adoption. The shelter has also developed relationships with a variety of licensed rescue groups in Kansas who assist in getting animals into "forever homes."

In addition, AC is partnering with Spay & Neuter Kansas City to offer a series of low-cost rabies vaccination and microchip clinics for all KCK residents. These clinics will be held at various locations throughout the city. We are hopeful that Rosedale will be a chosen site in the near future.

Public outreach and education on local animal control ordinances, including the mandatory spay/neuter of any cat or dog over 6 months of age, has improved. This includes free Spay/Neuter Vouchers for those who qualify through the low-cost rabies and microchip clinics.

Funds have been allocated to purchase a mobile trailer that would be used to provide education and direct services to the community. Partnerships could be formed to enhance the services provided through this vehicle. In cases of a community disaster, the trailer could be taken on-site to offer assistance to pets impacted by the disaster.

Capt. Horn has taken on the challenge of upgrading KCK Animal Control and is making excellent progress to provide a caring atmosphere for lost and unwanted animals. I applaud his efforts. We can all help make his job easier by being informed and responsible pet owners, having our cats and dogs spayed or neutered, and encouraging our neighbors to do the same.

For more information, visit: www.kckpd.org/animalcontrol.htm.

- Wendy Wilson