ANIMAL CONTROL

The Animal Control Division was established in 1935

when there was a Dog Warden, but in 1991 it was renamed Animal Control due to the arrival of the rabies virus which had been steadily moving up the East Coast.

An Animal Control Officer is charged with catching stray or loose dogs, cats, and sometimes other animals, and bringing them to a shelter where the animals are held for a certain time before being returned to their owners, put up for adoption or euthanized. (Any dog impounded at the Bridgeport Animal Control Facility will be advertised in the lost and found section of the Connecticut Post. Seven(7) days from the advertisement date, the dog will go up for adoption.)

Animal control officers are also responsible for investigating incidents of human contact with both wild and domestic animals, such as bites. They usually work with Health Departments to ensure the health of humans injured by animals. The term "Dogcatcher" does have its place in history! There are variations of the title, "I wouldn't vote for him for dogcatcher" or "He couldn't run for dogcatcher in this country" refers to an individual so poorly regarded that the individual in question is not fit to be elected to even a trivial position of public trust. But in fact the role of the Animal Control Officer has changed over the past few decades. Gone are the days of the big bad "dog catcher". Today's ACO focuses more on educating the public on proper animal care, and rescuing animals from dangerous or abusive situations.

Get your dog spayed or neutered. Spay/neutered pets not only live longer and healthier lives, but they also make better companions. The best age to spay/neuter a dog is around five to six months old, at the beginning of puberty. Talk to your vet about the right time for your dog.

Provide proper identification. Your dog should always wear an I.D. tag with your name, address and phone number. Getting your dog microchipped gives an added layer of protection and increases the chances that he will be returned to you if he lost.

Get training to help you understand your dog. Knowing your dog's unique temperament and tendencies will help you to better control how he behaves. A well-behaved dog is less likely to upset people and pets in public places, will be more welcome at gatherings, and will enjoy a better relationship with everyone he meets. Plus, his good manners will reflect positively on you, his responsible owner.