Animal Control Officers are uniformed and sworn staff, who respond to animal calls but can assist other officers on calls. They are able to respond in the off hours for serious animal complaint problems but are not staffed 24hrs.

The Animal Control Division plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of both humans and animals within our community.

Our dedicated team of professionals are committed to enforcing animal-related ordinances, responding to calls for assistance, and promoting responsible pet ownership.

From managing stray and nuisance animals, to investigating cases of animal cruelty, our goal is to create a harmonious environment where humans and animals can coexist peacefully.

The Animal Control Division ensures that animals do not pose a threat to public safety by responding to reports of aggressive or dangerous animals. They work to protect animals from abuse, neglect, and abandonment by enforcing animal cruelty laws and providing care for animals in distress.

This division plays a vital role in helping to control the spread of diseases such as rabies by managing stray and feral animal populations and ensuring animals are vaccinated. Animal Control Officers educate the public about responsible pet ownership, local animal laws, and the importance of spaying/neutering pets.

Additionally, the Animal Control Division mediates conflicts involving animals, such as neighbor disputes over pets, and helps find solutions that are fair and effective. They also help reunite lost pets with their owners and manages shelters or coordinates with local shelters to care for stray animals.

This division is vital for maintaining a safe and humane environment for both the community and its animals. Through education, enforcement, and collaboration with local organizations we strive to protect the welfare of all creatures, great and small.

For information regarding laws and codes pertaining to animals in Shenandoah County, please click here.

To learn more about protecting and conserving wildlife, please click here.

To see what animals are available for adoption at the Shenandoah County Animal Shelter, please click here.