When Animal Control is at Your Door
Always be polite but firm when speaking to an animal control representative. You can use these scenarios to guide you in your interactions. And remember: less is often more. Anything you say in an interaction with the authorities could inadvertently reveal something unhelpful to your case or give them grounds for a more extensive search.
Animal Control Laws are Different Everywhere
Laws affecting Trap-Neuter-Return and outdoor cats are different in every city and state. The best way to protect yourself and your cats is by knowing your local laws.
You can find tips by referring to our factsheet “How to Find Laws that Relate to Cats.”
Note: Pay special attention to the definition of “owner” in your local laws. Some definitions are so broad that they can be interpreted as including community cat caregiverswho we know, of course, do not own community cats. In recent years, some jurisdictions have expressly exempted caregivers from the definition of “owner” in order to avoid confusion.
Reasons You May Need to Surrender Your Dog
It is always preferable to keep a dog for his entire life, as changes in familial status can be quite traumatic. Dogs bond deeply with their families, and they can become depressed, anxious, or suffer from a variety of behavioral problems in response to such upheaval.
However, it isn’t always possible to keep a pet. Sometimes, the universe simply throws you a curveball, forcing you to do things you never thought you’d have to do. We have an entire guide to help you decide whether or not it’s time to rehome your pet. Some of the most common reasons people must surrender a dog include:
Dog Training & Care : How to Pick a Dog From the Pound
As a caregiver for outdoor cats, you may be approached by local authorities at some point. In some communities, animal-related ordinances are enforced by full-time animal control officers; in others, police officers, sheriffs, or code enforcement officers might be assigned to animal control duties or wear several hats, including animal control. In some situations, the Department of Health might respond to certain questions or concerns. Any one of these officials might at some point take an interest in outdoor cats.
Some animal control departments and other local authorities are wholeheartedly supportive of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and can be excellent allies in your TNR work. Increasingly, animal control agencies and animal shelters are participating in TNR and Shelter-Neuter-Return (SNR), as they realize that doing so is best for the cats and the community.
Unfortunately, some authorities are stuck in an outdated mindset and aren’t supportive of TNR, or are tasked with enforcing antiquated laws that prohibit TNR or create barriers for community cat caretakers. If you find yourself in conflict because you care for cats who live outdoors, it’s important that you understand your rights under the law, and to remember that the officials, including law enforcement officers, are not allowed to violate those rights. They can’t search your property, stop and question you, or cite you without a reason. However, caregivers often consent to these requests because they don’t know they have the option to say “no.”
The following fact sheet provides you with information on your rights. It should not be construed as legal advice.