Since 1997, BJC Animal Control has operated the Jefferson County impoundment facility under contract with the Jefferson County Commission and the City of Birmingham. BJC must adhere to all applicable laws, work with law enforcement on both the county and municipal level, comply with contracts offered by the county and the city and deal regularly with the public concerning either their animals or animals of others.

BJC’s mission is to actively preserve, protect and enhance the health, safety and comfort of the citizens of Jefferson County by taking violent, injured or at-large animals off the streets to keep the community free from potentially threatening nuisances. Funded by local and county tax dollars, BJC cares for the stray animal population and controls the risk of rabies in the community through impounding animals not displaying proof of current rabies vaccination or who are in violation of local leash laws.

While required by state law to hold animals for seven days, only 10 to 15 percent are claimed by owners. BJC consistently strives to find all healthy animals a forever home, but the number of adoptable animals far outweighs the demand. BJC advocates responsible animal owner obligations and believes it is a community problem which will take a community effort to help save shelter animals and reduce these numbers.

In addition to all other activities being performed, BJC receives more than 1,000 requests for services each month, with close to 250 a week and 50 a day. BJC is one of the only organizations in the state involved in animal control or welfare employing a full-time staff veterinarian licensed by the Alabama State Board of Veterinary Examiners. Each BJC animal control officer is required to complete extensive training, including that conducted by the National Animal Control Association, and all employees regularly participate in continuing education in the area of their responsibilities.

Click here for a listing of laws and regulations relating to animal control within BJC's jurisdiction.