Animal Control

The Hamden Police Department Animal Control Division consists of two full time officers.  Currently Hamden Animal Control houses impounded animals in a neighboring town.  Because Hamden does not have its own shelter, there are a limited number of kennels available.  Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.  Officers are available after hours and on weekend and holidays for emergencies only.

Functions

The main functions of the Animal Control Unit are Public Safety and Law Enforcement relating to domestic animals.  Public Safety relates to keeping the public safe from potentially dangerous situations, which could include anything from impounding vicious dogs, to quarantining a biting dog and more.  Law Enforcement can give a warning for a roaming dog, issue an infraction for an unlicensed dog, or even execute a search and seizure warrant in a cruelty case, just to name a few. 

Connecticut State Dog Laws

There is no leash law in Connecticut.  There is a roaming law which means your dog must be under your control when it is off your property. 

Dogs and cats must be vaccinated for rabies at 3 months of age.

Dogs must be licensed at 6 months of age in the town in which they reside.  Licenses can be purchased at the Town Clerk’s office.  Proof of rabies and spay or neuter must be provided at time of licensure.

What to do if I find a stray dog?

If the dog is loose and not in your custody, call 203-230-4080.  If there is no answer, the ACOs may be out on a call, leave a message.  Generally calls are returned promptly.  If the dog is in your custody ACOs do come out after hours, but keep in mind it may take some time for them to respond to the scene.  Please be safe and careful about approaching a stray dog.  They are not always friendly. 

What to do if I lost my pet?

Call the office and report it.  Animal Control Officers keep a list of lost pets.  In some cases, your pet may be in custody.  Check the Hamden Animal Control Facebook page.  Pictures of found pets are usually posted there within 24 hours.

Redemptions

Please call the office if you are missing your pet.  Leave a message if there is no answer.  Messages are checked daily and your pet may be returned to you sooner.  Once Animal Control has determined if your pet has been impounded, they will make an appointment with you to pick up your pet.  There is a fee to redeem your pet.  Proof of ownership will be required.

Adoptions

If an animal is not claimed by the owner and is in good health, the animal will go up for adoption.  Animals for adoption may be posted on the Hamden Animal Control FaceBook page.

What to do if you are bitten by an animal?

Report it to the Animal Control Officer or the Police.  The biting animal must be quarantined for ten days from the date of the bite regardless of the vaccination status.  If the owner of the biting animal resides in another town, report it to the Animal Control Officer in the town where the animal lives. 

What to do if I see a fox (wildlife) in my yard?

Unless the fox is sick or immobile, nothing.  Wildlife will be out during the day certain times of the year and during certain weather patterns.  It does not mean the animal is rabid.  If you are worried about your pets, you can seek advice from the State DEEP Wildlife Division.

 
You can keep up to date with the latest news from Hamden Animal Control by visiting the Hamden Animal Control FaceBook page.