Hillsborough County's Pet Resources was commended for their swift response to a serious canine influenza outbreak last year, earning them accolades from both state and national organizations. The Florida Animal Protection and Advocacy Association bestowed the Outstanding Cooperative Achievement Award, while the National Association of Counties recognized their efforts with an Achievement Award. Chelsea Waldeck, Division Director of the Pet Resource Center, accepted these awards during the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners August Quarterly Awards Ceremony, as reported in a recent article by Hillsborough County.
In June of 2024, the Pet Resource Center (PRC) was faced with an immediate crisis when the canine flu swept through the county. The PRC responded by temporarily relocating all affected dogs and undertaking a thorough cleaning of their shelter. This action was necessary for halt the spread of the virus and to allow time for the animals to recover in a safe environment. The dual operation, managed by PRC, Hillsborough County Animal Control, and aided by community volunteers, lasted roughly 30 days before the dogs were healthy enough to return to the PRC, as detailed in the Hillsborough County's announcement.
Several other honors were presented at the awards ceremony. These included the Earle B. Phelps Award from the Florida Water Environment Association to the Northwest Regional Water Reclamation Facility and the "If You Care, You Do!" Award by the 2025 Florida City and County Management Association to Chief Human Services Administrator Carl Harness. Additionally, Children's Services received the Council on Accreditation's (COA) Reaccreditation.
Among other ceremonial items, a proclamation was declared marking August 2025 as Back to School Readiness Month. For those interested in all of the recognitions awarded by the Board during its meetings, a comprehensive list can be found on the County's Proclamations and Commendations webpage.
