Beloved Rochester Animal Control Officer Retires After 24 Years

After more than two decades helping the community of Rochester, Animal Control Officer Annie Estabrook has retired.

 More Than a Typical Animal Control Officer

"For 24 years, Annie has been the calm voice on the other end of the phone when residents weren't quite sure whether they had an emergency or just an unusually aggressive squirrel," Rochester Police shared on Facebook.

"The measure of a successful career isn't just how long you served, it's whether people will notice when you're gone," the department said.

You might think you have an idea of what an Animal Control officer does. The typical depiction in movies is that of a dog catcher, but for Estabrook, it was so much more.

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Answering Calls at All Hours

"What they don't see are the countless phone calls at all hours of the day and night," the RPD said. "Somehow, no matter what the problem was, Annie showed up, figured it out, and made everyone feel a little better."

Rochester Police Celebrate Her Retirement

The police department provided a sweet send-off for Estabrook including a pizza party, sash and crown and a plaque to remember her time serving the community.

The department praised her dedication and the service she's provided to so many individuals and families on the SouthCoast.

A Lasting Impact on the Community

"We wish you nothing but happiness, relaxation, and a retirement free from emergency calls about rogue turkeys, wandering goats, and suspicious raccoons," police wrote.

Congratulations on your retirement, Annie. Enjoy your well-earned time off.