Our Officers

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The Porter County Animal Control Unit is a part of the Porter County Animal Shelter. As law enforcement officers, their primary responsibility is to enforce the Porter County Animal Control Ordinance. When they are not responding to calls, our Officers work at the Shelter to train and socialize our animals to improve their chances of finding a loving forever home. 

Kori Black
Animal Control Supervisor

Officer Black has been with the Shelter since May of 2018. She began her work with us as a dog handler, and has since been promoted to Animal Control Officer. Officer Black is originally from Louisiana, where she began her career in animal rescue and shelter work in 2013. Her life's passion is rescuing animals and educating the public on responsible pet ownership.
Jen Schaafsma

Jen Schaafsma
Animal Control Officer

Officer Schaafsma has been with the Animal Control Department since October of 2019. She holds a degree in Criminal Justice, and has compassion for animals and people alike. She prides herself in using her positive high energy level in conjunction with her calm demeanor to navigate difficult situations. Officer Schaafsma enjoys doing as much as she can with and in the community to reduce the amount of homeless and suffering animals.

Alexis Dowdy

Alexis Dowdy
Animal Control Officer

Officer Dowdy has been with Porter County Animal Shelter since March of 2018, starting as a dog handler. In 2019 she was promoted to be the Rescue/Volunteer Coordinator with a concentration in behavioral rehabilitation. In February of 2020, she transferred to Animal Control. As an animal control officer, she enforces the county ordinances and uses her investigative abilities to preserve the quality of life of the animals within Porter County. When Alexis isn’t processing bite reports or investigating, she can be found on group walks with the dogs or giving extra time and attention to the animals who need it most here at the shelter.  

Two cats and two puppies holding a sign

Porter County Animal Control serves all of Porter County EXCEPT FOR THE CITY OF PORTAGE. All information contained in this section of the website is only applicable to the areas served by Porter County Animal Control. If you live in the City of Portage, you will need to contact them directly at (219) 763-1825, as they may have different policies and ordinances.