It’s easy to think of the local animal shelter as simply the place that responds when a stray dog is spotted wandering through a neighborhood. But in reality, the role of the department and its staff go far beyond capturing loose animals; they are an essential resource for both residents and wildlife alike.

On any given day, animal control officers are helping homeowners navigate unexpected wildlife encounters. From raccoons nesting in attics to injured birds in backyards, to animals in chimneys, Animal Control Officers (ACO) provide guidance, humane solutions, and, when necessary, safe removal. Just as importantly, they educate residents on how to prevent these situations in the first place, offering advice that protects both property and the animals themselves.

For ACOs Dan Champagne and Briana Hernandez, the biggest challenge to being Animal Control Officers is the public perception of ACOs being the “bad guys” out to harm animals.

“We’re not just the dog catcher,” Champagne said, who recently became Norwood’s nighttime ACO. “ACOs love animals more than anyone I know.”

Champagne is taking the reins from Hernandez’s nighttime position as she steps into the daytime role vacated by Henry Cerqueira, who recently retired after 34 years. Hernandez called Cerqueira “a great teacher” who will stay on as a consultant.

“I look forward to learning a lot from Hernandez,” Norton native Champagne said.  “Briana’s the best.”

“We’re excited to have Dan,” Hernandez said. “He’ll be a real asset.”

Champagne comes to Norwood from Taunton where he volunteered at the city’s animal shelter on weekends and whenever he had free time.

“I always wanted to work in public service,” Champagne said. “I began taking classes from NACCA (National Animal Care and Control Association) in animal control and it was the right fit.”

Champagne made the switch to animal control in the spring of 2025 after working at a Land Rover dealership for eight years; he also helped build police and fire vehicles. Such knowledge about engines, especially those “in between” spaces, comes in more handy for an ACO than one would think. 

“When I was in Taunton, I had to get underneath a van to get a cat from under the engine,” Champagne said.

Champagne also recalled going to a barn fire in Taunton to help rescue some goats.

In her four years as Norwood’s nighttime ACO, Hernandez has seen her share of four-footed things that go bump in the night. 

“I’ve gotten bats out of people’s houses, animals out of storm drains,” Hernandez said.

Support and rescue come in many forms as an ACO. The shelter also plays a critical role in rehabilitation. Many of the animals they encounter are not simply “nuisances,” but creatures in distress; injured, sick, or displaced. Working with local wildlife rehabilitators, the team ensures these animals receive the care they need, with the goal of returning them safely to their natural environment whenever possible.

And for pet owners, the shelter is often a lifeline during stressful moments. Whether reuniting a lost dog with its family or helping track down a missing cat, their work brings peace of mind to residents and happy endings to countless stories.

Then there’s the saga of Marley, a cat recently rescued on Central St. after being reported missing for nearly a year. Through the efforts of the local community and Hernandez’s perseverance,  Despite some cuts on his face, Marley is in good shape, and will soon be reunited with his family.

Hernandez said a family on Central Street had been feeding Marley “for a long time.”

“I can’t believe he survived the recent snowstorms,” Champagne said.

A portion of Marley’s vet bills has been covered by Charley’s Angels Pet Initiative, a program that assists pet owners with food, toys and other essential services.

On March 29, Hernandez appeared as the Easter Bunny for the Annual Pet and Family Photo event, from 1 to 4 p.m., at Castle Island Brewing Co., 32 Astore Ave. All proceeds will benefit Charley’s Angels.

The ACO’s Animal Shelter, 160 Boston Providence Turnpike, accepts donations Mondays through Saturdays from 4 to 5 p.m. Pet supplies and food must be new or unused, clearly marked with current expiration dates. Bedding items, such as blankets, dog or cat beds, towels, toys, food and water dishes, dog collars, should be either new or freshly cleaned.

Financial donations to support the shelter are graciously received. Checks should be made payable to “Betterment of Norwood Animal Shelter,” and mailed to Norwood Animal Shelter, Town of Norwood, P.O. Box 40, Norwood, MA 02062.

For information on the Animal Control Department, visit www.norwoodma.gov/residents/animal_control/index.php For the latest information on ACO adoptions, programs, and activities, visit its Facebook page, www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561930857188

In many ways, the local animal shelter serves as both protector and problem-solver, balancing public safety, compassion for animals, and support for the community. Their work may not always be visible, but its impact is felt in neighborhoods every single day.