Spotlight on Animal Heroes:

NYSHA Recognizes Madison County ACO Kim Muehlenbein

NYSHA Recognizes Madison County ACO Kim Muehlenbein
Kim Muehlenbein, seen here with “Caesar,” whom she fostered. He is a Great Dane/Mastiff mix, who was starved to 46 pounds, resulting in a felony charge of aggravated cruelty. Now at about 100 pounds, he is emotionally recovering from his horrific experience.

NYSHA’s “Spotlight” section features various groups and individuals who go above and beyond to improve the lives of animals. ACO Muehlenbein was brought to our attention by Joanne Cronan-Hamoy from the Wanderers’ Rest Humane Association in Canastota, NY.

Her ability to foster care the animals who have been starved or injured in cruelty cases is nothing short of exceptional. Many (animals) would not have made it without her.

Ms. Muehlenbein has worked for over 30 years, covering several towns and villages in this county which is located near Syracuse. In addition to her unfailing response to dog and cat complaints, she responds to numerous animal issues that residents call about and provides police with onsite assistance. She always seems to be in the right place at the right time for the animals she rescues. According to Ms. Cronan-Hamoy, “You never know what she may have riding on the passenger seat beside her in the state-of-the-art van that she drives on a daily basis.”

Ms. Muehlenbein’s years of animal-related experience enable her to assist police with documenting cases, going to court, and obtaining reimbursement for costs. She also provides her guidance to anyone who needs it to deal with animal cases.

Ms. Muehlenbein says she’s fine doing her work day-in and day-out, and she fortunately has the personality to brush off the criticism that repeat offenders heap on her. Her ability to foster care the animals who have been starved or injured in cruelty cases is nothing short of exceptional. Many would not have made it without her.

Her colleagues, police officers, and all who work with her, praise her skills and knowledge, and value her friendship. In sum, Ms. Muehlenbein is an excellent Animal Control Officer and a perfect role model for all others across Madison County and beyond.

Ms. Muehlenbein – NYSHA, along with your friends, colleagues, police and fellow ACO officers, and most importantly all the animals you have personally saved from danger, pain, suffering and abandonment, salute you for your decades of excellent service.

New York State Humane Association Humane Review, Vol.XXXI Winter/Spring 2017.