2025 NCARCA Conference in the making!!

Keys and catch-pole in my hand,

My defense against dog and man.

Work in the rain, ice, wind, and sun

I really hoped this job would be fun

But we’re all exhausted when the day is done.

It’s been a battle, the other side won.

Combat boots that hurt my feet,

The right one leaks, the left one squeaks.

Polished for inspection!

Touching these boots could cause an infection.

Same pair each day of the week.

Those babies are starting to stink!

Hand dirty, hair a mess,

From me, expect not one bit less.

Caring for animals good and bad

Sick and injured makes me sad.

Soothe the scared, meek, and mild,

Try to calm the mad and wild.

Working with pride and a lot of faith

Call the family, I’m working late.

Don’t look at me down your nose!

No, that’s not mud on my clothes.

It could be blood where I got bit,

Dirt and sweat upon my lip,

Or some puppy took a crap

When I got it from the trap.

Fighting rabies, keeping the law,

When you need us, you just call.

Though we’re shorthanded with the hiring freeze

Answer your door, it’s dark, but it’s me.

Driving our trucks until they break

As for your call, sorry I’m late.

Bruised and tired my shift is done,

Now I get to have some fun.

Tomorrow the kennel I “get to clean”

Hope I remember which cats are mean.

Every day, all year long,

Someone cares for those animals found.

I’m proud to be on this payroll

For I’m a part of Animal Control.

Patti Miller 7/3/01