FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Cumberland County’s Animal Control Department has a new name. From now on, it will be known as Cumberland County Animal Services.

Officials say the new name better describes the kind of work they do.

No longer is it strictly a dog pound type location. They now provide spay and neuter services along with other types of medical care.

While some animals still have to be euthanized there, their rate of positive outcomes for shelter animals has risen over 20 percent from this same time last year. A renewed emphasis has been placed on pet adoptions and foster homes for the animals.

The staff also undergoes mandatory training that teaches how to maintain the emotional well being of the animals at the shelter.

Earlier this year, the number of animals housed at the shelter had fallen to single digits. Part of that was due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, there are about 200 animals being kept at the shelter.