2022 Humane Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award Presented to Montgomery County Animal Services Officer Dany Flores-Lopez

Dany Flores-Lopez, an animal services officer with the Montgomery County Office of Animal Services (OAS), has been named the 2022 Humane Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by the National Animal Care and Control Association (NACA). The award is presented to an individual whose exceptional performance and work in the field of humane law enforcement has demonstrated a strong commitment to the safety and welfare of the animals in their community.

NACA has been presenting national awards for 25 years to individuals who have been directly involved in the animal care and control profession for a minimum of five years and are individual NACA members.Officer Flores-Lopez began his career with animals as a kennel attendant at the Montgomery County Humane Society before working as an animal control officer with the City of Gaithersburg. He was hired by the County in 2013. “I fell in love with animal care at a young age, but to be able to grow up and achieve my dream job is indescribable,” said Officer Flores-Lopez.

Officer Flores-Lopez can often be found helping his fellow officers, cleaning kennels to support the care staff at the shelter, working the dispatch call center and stepping in to assist the adoptions program and administrative staff.  Officer Flores-Lopez demonstrates a strong work ethic, positive attitude, professionalism and complete dedication to the welfare of both animals and people. “Officer Flores-Lopez is a consummate team player who goes above and beyond to support both his co-workers and the community,” said OAS Executive Director Thomas Koenig. “I was so proud to nominate Officer Flores-Lopes for this award, and the fact he actually won is such a great honor and a first for our department.”

The Montgomery County Office of Animal Services operates the Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center, the County’s only open-admission, municipal shelter. Animal Services Officers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to investigate complaints and respond to animal emergencies.