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1. I found a deceased animal. What should I do?

Animal Control does not remove any deceased animals. Please contact the Brooklyn Service garage for removal at 216-635-4232. If the animal is on your property, you must bag and set it on the tree lawn for pick up. If the animal is a dog or a cat, you are encouraged to leave a description of the animal with Animal Control to document in case it is a missing pet.

2. Who do I call with an animal related complaint or concern?

If the situation needs immediate attention, such as an animal in distress, then call the Police Department’s non-emergency number at 216-749-1234. Anytime something does not seem right, it is better to be wrong then do nothing.

If you would like to place a complaint on an animal, please contact the Animal Control Officer and leave the nature of the complaint, the exact number address of where the animal lives, and your contact information.

3. Does my dog need a license every year?

Yes, per Ohio and City law, a county dog license must be obtained by January 31st of each year. You can get them at the County Kennel, the County Administration office or online and at Drug Mart.

4. Does my cat or dog need a rabies vaccination?

Yes, per Ohio and City law, a rabies vaccine is required for all dogs and cats over the age of 3 months. The initial vaccine is good for 1 year and then every 3 years from then on.

5. Are cats allowed to roam free in the City?

No, cats are considered at large just like a dog would be when off of their property, unaccompanied by an owner and off-leash. The City’s Animals Running at Large Ordinance, 505.11, applies to both cats and dogs equally.

6. Does the City handle nuisance wildlife? Can I as a resident set a wildlife trap?

We have an ordinance prohibiting the trapping of wildlife by residents. Why is this? In compliance with the Ohio Division of Wildlife (ODNR), any trapped raccoon, skunk or opossum must either be euthanized or released on site. Those are the only two legal options for these animals; there is no relocating! Residents cannot humanely euthanize animals, and Animal Control does not offer this service.

The reason for this is euthanizing the animal will not fix the issue; unless the attractant is removed, more wildlife will come! In almost all cases, nuisance wildlife issues will solve themselves with correct guidance. Please leave Animal Control a voicemail at 216-635-4291 for more information.

7. What about sick or injured wildlife?

If the animal is one that the Lake Erie Nature and Science Center can attempt to rehabilitate, then they are taken there. Otherwise, for others that they do not handle or are too far gone from disease or injury, the Animal Control Officer will humanely euthanize them.

8. I have lost or found a pet, what should I do?

If you have lost or found a pet, please contact the Animal Control Officer and leave a description of the animal, where the animal was found or missing from, and your contact information. If the animal is sick or injured, please call the Police Department’s non-emergency number at 216-749-1234.