Mission Viejo Animal Services named 2026 Agency of the Year by National Animal Care and Control Association

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animal control officers

Mission Viejo Animal Services (MVAS) has been named the 2026 Agency of the Year by the National Animal Care and Control Association (NACA), one of the highest honors in the field of animal care and control.

This prestigious national award recognizes agencies that demonstrate exceptional dedication, innovation, and impact in serving animals and their communities. MVAS was selected for its outstanding service, forward-thinking programs, and unwavering commitment to animal welfare.

“This recognition is a testament to the incredible work our team does every single day,” said MVAS Director Brynn Lavison. “From frontline staff to volunteers, this award reflects a shared passion for protecting animals, supporting our community, and continually raising the standard of care in our profession.”

The Agency of the Year Award highlights MVAS’s remarkable achievements and the meaningful difference it has made in the lives of animals and residents alike. Through innovative programs, strong community partnerships, and a culture rooted in compassion and service, MVAS has become a model for agencies nationwide.

In addition to celebrating operational excellence, the award recognizes MVAS’s leadership within the broader animal welfare field. The agency’s commitment to education, disaster response, volunteer engagement, and progressive animal care practices has helped drive positive change and elevate industry standards.

As a recipient of this distinguished honor, MVAS joins a select group of agencies whose contributions have had a lasting impact on animal welfare and the advancement of animal care and control. This recognition serves as both a milestone and motivation for MVAS to continue innovating and expanding services for animals and the community alike.

Comments

Submitted by GRACE MASUDA on Fri, 04/03/2026 - 8:47 pm

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You should all be so proud of receiving such high recognition. So many of us know it's because of your hard work, compassion, and love of animals. It is things like this that make us so fortunate to be living in Mission Viejo. We can't THANK YOU enough for enriching our lives, and especially all the animals you come in contact with!!

Submitted by Erina H. on Fri, 04/03/2026 - 1:37 pm

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Congratulations on such a wonderful accomplishment! It is so well-deserved. I had such a good experience with MVAS. I witnessed a dog attack a squirrel at the Murray Center and the squirrel was hurt and not moving afterwards. I called MVAS and the officer came promptly. She was so kind, professional, and compassionate, and took the squirrel for care. My mother-in-law even called the next day and was told that the squirrel was doing well and being rehabbed. I love this team. Thank you for caring so much about the animals in our community!

Submitted by John Gonzales on Fri, 04/03/2026 - 12:33 pm

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Brynn and all staff and volunteers at MVACC I send you my heartfelt congratulations for achieving such a remarkable honor and distinction as the 2926 Agency of the year. You have the envy of your fellow agencies, Animal advocates and our Humane communities who share your love and dedication for all animals. You’ve set a high standard for others to achieve. As a former member of Mission Viejo Animal Carr Center I am inspired by your combined efforts.

Submitted by Ness Melham on Thu, 04/02/2026 - 10:42 am

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Congratulation's!
Being recognized by the country for doing what you all obviously already love to do is the icing on the cake. Your dedication to a duty that can be both joyous and sometimes painful is greatly appreciated and admired.
Well done all!