Broward’s animal pound director resigns amid criticism

The director of Broward’s pound has resigned amid criticism from a county commissioner and animal activists, who worry about poor conditions for stray animals.

Lauralei Combs, the director for Broward County Animal Care and Adoption Center, filed her formal resignation on Friday, planning for her last day to be March 27.

She wouldn’t address why she is leaving, except to say, “I think we’ve done a lot in two years and I appreciate the opportunity. There’s a lot of opportunity out there to do good.”

About the criticism: “They are all entitled to their opinion,” she said Monday.

Broward Commissioner Mark Bogen has championed the cause of the animal enthusiasts, who argue that dogs and cats are too quickly euthanized at the county pound. More than 1,000 animals are killed each year at the county shelter. Last month, Bogen, a former prosecutor, warned management to clean up its act and threatened to call authorities to investigate whether there is animal abuse. He had been a sympathetic ear for activists who have long demanded change. A Facebook page called “Reform Broward County Animal Care & Adoption” has thousands of followers and started in March 2019.

“I will make sure the new director has standards and protocols to make sure animals are treated humanely,” Bogen said.

On Monday, Deputy County Administrator Monica Cepero said a national search would begin for a replacement.

“This is the first step on cleaning up our shelter,” said Wendy Schugar Martin, a self-described animal advocate.

Hallandale Beach Commissioner Michele Lazarow, who is also the director of Alliance of Animal Welfare, said scores of supporters were hopeful Monday about possible change. Among their issues: They claimed the kill rate was “deceptive,” and living conditions for the homeless pets were “deplorable.”

“I think the cries of advocates and the hard work of the volunteers who have not stayed silent will feel this is a new day for the animals,” she said. “That there is hope for them of a new day.”

Of Combs’ departure: “She saw the writing on the wall. I don’t know how she stayed this long.”

In her one-page resignation letter, Combs wrote, “During my time at Animal Care and Adoption, I have been very fortunate for the opportunity to grow and learn more about Animal Welfare from the Directors perspective. I will always be grateful for this experience. Your guidance and support have prepared me well for the future.”