Department of Agriculture names director for newly-created Division of Animal Welfare | News

The Colorado Department of Agriculture has appointed Joe Stafford as the director of its newly-established Division of Animal Welfare. 

“Joe has the experience necessary to lead CDA’s new Division of Animal Welfare and is committed to building collaborative relationships with pet animal and livestock organizations as well as law enforcement agencies across Colorado,” said Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg. “As Division of Animal Welfare Director, Joe will focus on implementing key initiatives, such as the new Equine Welfare Assistance Grant program, promoting mental health services on animal welfare cases, and implementing new community outreach and engagement efforts.”

Stafford has over two decades of experience in animal welfare, most recently serving as the Director of Animal Services for the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. 

The creation of The Division of Animal Welfare was the result of a bipartisan bill passed during the 2024 legislative session. According to the bill, the Division was created to “promote domestic animal welfare, including providing education and outreach, creating voluntary programs, and awarding grants.”

The Division will house two new animal welfare programs: the Bureau of Animal Protection, and the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act Program.  

_{Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their original owners.}