Our humane Animal Protection officers are peace officers, mediators, enforcers, Certified Equine Investigators, and animal cruelty, investigators. They have the authority to report and seize animals, they are not “dog catchers” or animal control officers. The department serves La Plata County (Durango, Bayfield, Ignacio, and Hesperus). Officers respond to concerns about animal cruelty reported through the Central Dispatch Hotline (970) 385-2900, as well as cases referred by other law enforcement agencies.

Our officers spend several hours each day out in the field, responding to calls. Their main daily task is to respond to potential situations of animal cruelty, and investigate and mediate neighborhood complaints pertaining to animals. They also capture, impound, quarantine vicious wild animals capable of transmitting rabies, help the injured, promote responsible pet ownership, pet care and humane education to the community.