Animal Control continues to hit the sweet spot with its third episode, "Goats, Snakes, and Dogs," blending humor, heart, and just the right amount of absurdity. In this episode, we see Frank, the tough ex-cop with a prickly exterior, show a softer side as he goes to great lengths to save a dog in danger, reflecting his own emotional struggle and complicated past. While this could have been a predictable trope, the show manages to keep it fresh with clever writing and solid character development.
The episode kicks off with a fantastic cold open that sets the tone, highlighting Frank’s complicated relationship with his emotions and the job he does. When Frank unexpectedly has a change of heart about euthanizing a dog, his actions reveal much about his inner turmoil, and his bond with the dog serves as a metaphor for his own vulnerabilities. The dynamic between Frank and Patel here is both humorous and touching, as the rookie cop is reluctantly roped into helping with a jailbreak to save the dog. It’s this balance of silly antics and emotional stakes that makes Animal Control so engaging.
One of the standout aspects of this episode is the effective parallel between Frank’s attempt to do a kind thing for the dog and the wild stunts happening around the office. The show cleverly portrays the difficulties of the animal control job, especially for those who genuinely care about the animals they rescue. This is highlighted by Emily’s metaphors about the job and the emotional strain of dealing with the paperwork — a nice, subtle commentary on the wear and tear of such work. The therapy goat, LeBron, brings a much-needed touch of humor and heart to the bleak environment of Precinct 13, and his brief theft by Patel provides some lighthearted moments, especially with Ravi Patel’s hilarious delivery of lines.
The episode also deepens the character relationships, especially the evolving dynamics between the core team members. Frank’s personal breakthroughs continue to be a highlight, and even though he resists admitting it, the animals help him unlock a part of himself that he often suppresses. The way he ends up giving the dog to his father is both heartbreaking and telling, adding a layer of depth to the show that’s not just about laughs but about the characters' emotional growth.
However, there’s a slight issue with Patel’s side storyline, particularly his marriage to Maya. The subplot around “Sponge-gate” feels a bit underdeveloped, and it’s clear that Animal Control struggles to give enough screen time to explore their relationship fully. Still, the show excels in other areas, particularly in its portrayal of Emily and Victoria’s friendship. Their moments together feel genuine, with Victoria offering emotional support to Emily as she grapples with her feelings for Shred. Vella Lovell shines in these quieter moments, adding an emotional depth that anchors the more comedic parts of the show.
"Goats, Snakes, and Dogs" is another strong episode that blends heartfelt character development with sharp humor. It continues to build on the great dynamics between the core cast and delivers an emotional, often hilarious, exploration of personal growth, responsibility, and the challenges of working in animal control. Animal Control proves it can do both silly and sincere, making it an increasingly enjoyable watch with each episode.
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