The Missouri Animal Control Association has named Troy Schneider Animal Control Officer of the Year.

Schneider was awarded this distinction for exhibiting dedication to his profession and his community. This award reflects an officer’s act of heroism, professionalism, dedication to the performances of duties and efforts to improve the quality of life for animals at Sedalia’s Animal Shelter.

Schneider joined Sedalia’s Animal Shelter as a control officer with 13 years of experience in the criminal-justice system. He is certified as an Animal Control Officer through the Missouri Animal Control Association, and is a certified Level 1 Animal Cruelty Investigator through the University of Missouri.

In the four years since becoming Sedalia’s Animal Control Officer, Schneider has helped jump-start the Trap, Neuter & Release program in Sedalia, participating and organizing trapping events since the program’s infant stages. He has been influential in recognizing the need for vaccine and microchip clinics and has actively pursued and participated in those clinics.

Schneider has brought outreach practices to the Animal Control Department and practices education for owners before prosecution. He identified the large cat hoarding case in Sedalia last year, which resulted in the rescue of 78 cats.

“Troy’s constant desire to pursue his education and improve the Sedalia Animal Control practices have made him an incredible asset,” said Randi Battson, Manager of the Sedalia Animal Shelter. “We are so fortunate to have him on our team.”

Schneider is scheduled to be honored at the Missouri Animal Control Association dinner and awards banquet on Thursday, October 14 at Lake Ozark.

Photo courtesy City of Sedalia.