A citizen calls in the location of a dog lying in the street on East Hampden Avenue. Arriving on scene, Officer Edwardson finds the dog has died and is not wearing a collar or identification tags. It is later determined that the dog does not have a microchip, either.

"It's sad knowing that someone's pet has lost its life and the owner doesn't even know," she said.

Sometimes the owner cannot be located, but in this case the owner calls the police department inquiring if the dog has been found. Edwardson must deliver the bad news to the dog owner.

Immediately after the dog is left with a local veterinary hospital, a call comes in regarding an injured, stray dog. This dog also is not wearing a collar or tags. The dog is in obvious pain and can't even sit down. A local vet determines that the dog has a fractured pelvis. During the exam, a microchip is found which allows Michelle to contact the dog's owner. The dog has been missing for four days and likely had been hit by a car during that time.

"I just can't stress enough how important it is to have identification on your dog," she said.

By early afternoon, Edwardson is riding her horse on the city trails not accessible by vehicle. During these patrols she is looking for code violations and dogs off leash. Keeping the trails safe and enjoyable for everyone is accomplished by enforcing the animal control codes. But this is also a time to meet and greet folks on the trails.

"It's always enjoyable to stop and talk with other equestrians and people walking their dogs," she said. "I enjoy listening to their stories."

This day went from a beautiful beginning to a sad morning in the space of 10 minutes. But it ends on a high note. Today, Edwardson writes no tickets while riding on the city trails.

The next morning is spent talking with residents about wildlife in the city.

"I spend a good portion of my time helping and educating the public about wildlife issues," Edwardson said. "The waterways and open space in the city make this a wonderful place for wildlife to live. The human/wildlife conflicts can be difficult and finding the best solutions can be challenging."

Though Edwardson spends much of her time out on the roads and trails of Cherry Hills Village, she stops in the office to return telephone calls, write reports and attend the daily briefing with the officers and staff of the police department.

"I'm fortunate to work with a great team and I never feel like I'm out there all alone," she said, referring to the patrol officers she works with.

Edwardson has a passion for her work.

"As a child, I was always rescuing injured wildlife and saving barn kittens and rabbits," she said. "I was born to be an animal control officer, though I didn't know it until later. It's gratifying to work doing something I love and have been doing all my life. I feel I can make a difference here."

Leslie Burton is a police technician with the Cherry Hills Village Police Department.