BURKESVILLE, Ky. — Cumberland County Animal Control Officer Danny Groce has been named the 2026 Animal Control Officer of the Year by the Kentucky Animal Care and Control Association.

Groce was recognized for his work with animals and residents in Cumberland County, according to the Cumberland County Fiscal Court.

Since joining the county’s animal control team, Groce has more than doubled the number of dog and cat adoptions in Cumberland County, according to the Fiscal Court.

He has also worked to expand adoption efforts in the area and is organizing a low-cost or no-cost spay and neuter event for pets in Cumberland County.

The Fiscal Court said the award appears to be the first time a Cumberland County team member has been recognized by KACCA as its Animal Control Officer of the Year, based on the county’s available records.

“People talk about wanting a teammate who’s willing to go the extra mile,” Judge/Executive Luke King said in its announcement. “We’re lucky that our county has Danny Groce because he’ll go an extra hundred miles if it means pairing a good pet with the right family.”

King also credited Groce with continuing the work of previous shelter employees who have served Cumberland County.

The Kentucky Animal Care and Control Association represents animal care and control professionals and provides training and resources for the field.