Genesee County, MI  — The Genesee County Board of Commissioners on Wednesday, March 18, approved a resolution officially changing the name of Genesee County Animal Control to Genesee County Animal Care (GCAC), effective immediately.

While the new name takes effect right away, updates to signage, materials, and other public-facing items will happen over time. GCAC, located at 4351 West Pasadena Avenue in Flint Township, will continue providing the same high level of service residents have come to expect.

The name change is intended to better represent the department’s core purpose, values, and day-to-day work as a no-kill shelter. While enforcement of applicable animal laws remains an important responsibility, the department’s broader mission is centered on the care, protection, and placement of animals in need. From reuniting lost pets with their owners to facilitating successful adoptions into forever homes, GCAC’s work is rooted in compassion and service.

“In our field, the word ‘control’ can carry a stigma that doesn’t reflect who we are or the work we do every day,” said Jay Parker, Director of Genesee County Animal Care. “As a no-kill shelter, our focus is on compassion, care, and positive outcomes for animals and the people who love them. The new name better communicates our mission and the values that guide our team.”

Genesee County Animal Care provides a wide range of services for residents, including enforcement of Michigan dog licensing requirements, adoption services, trap-neuter-return programming, and assistance for residents seeking help with animals. GCAC also works closely with volunteers and nonprofit partners to secure outside support for food, enrichment, spay/neuter services, and medications, strengthening services while helping contain costs.

Board Chairman Dale K. Weighill said the new name reinforces GCAC’s long-standing commitment to the community.

“This is not a rebranding as much as it is a recognition of the compassionate, community-centered work this GCAC performs every day,” Weighill said. “They play a vital role in protecting animals, supporting residents, and promoting healthy, safe, and livable communities across our county.”

Many similar organizations across the country have adopted the term “Animal Care” in recent years to more clearly express a mission focused not only on enforcement, but on sheltering, treatment, reunification, and adoption. 

For more information, contact Jared Field, Director of Communications, at jfield@geneseecountymi.gov.