The Florida Animal Control Association believes that the identification and control of animals should be the highest priority. Stray dogs and cats are a potential threat to the health and safety of the public, a danger to domestic animals and wildlife, and a leading source of complaints to government officials. If not controlled, these strays could result in a population of feral animals that would weaken the rabies barrier between wild animals and humans.

All animal control and protection agencies must make every effort to maintain reports of lost animals, within personnel and budget restrictions. Records of animals cared for by animal control and protection agencies must include details of intake, care, and final disposition. These reports should be compared with impounded, injured or dead animals to ensure the best possibility of owner recovery.