Animal Control

About Animal Control

Animal Control is responsible for animal related functions, including:

  • Issuing annual dog and cat licenses
  • Enforcing the rabies vaccination criteria set by the state
  • Performing daily operations of the Alex Caprio Animal Control Facility
  • Enforcing state and local codes
  • Patrolling and impounding stray dogs and cats
  • Inspecting and licensing pet shops and kennels
  • Investigating animal bites
  • Investigating animal nuisance complaints
  • Maintaining lost and found records
  • Providing rabies and animal education programs and advice
  • Performing dead animal removal
  • Quarantining, capturing, and submitting specimens to the State Department of Health
  • Offering a rabies control program for suspect domestic animals and wildlife

Emergencies

For after-hours emergencies, call the Police Department at (973) 325-4000. They will contact an animal control officer.

Emergency Animal Control Recall Will Be Enacted For:

  • An injured domestic animal; dog or cat
  • A wild animal in the living portion of the home; squirrel, raccoon, bat
  • An animal posing an immediate threat to a person or domestic animal
  • A suspect rabid animal that is confined or acting in an aggressive manner
  • An animal blocking the entrance to a resident's home
  • A police action at the Sergeant's request
  • Wild dogs posing an immediate threat

Redemption & Adoption

The redemption and adoption program takes place at the animal control facility. Adoptions are scheduled from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on the first and third Saturday of each month. Redemption and adoption hours are Monday through Friday from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Residents should call first. Additional hours are available by appointment. For more information, call (973) 325-4121.

Be a Good Pet Owner Neighbor

Make sure your dog cannot leave your property. Use a leash under 6 feet and have your dog under control when not on your property. Limit barking times to less than 15 minutes during the day and not at all at night. Always pick up after your pet. Do not allow your dog or cat on the neighbor's property. Have your pets vaccinated against rabies.

DO NOT FEED STRAY CATS OR OTHER WILDLIFE OR PLACE FOOD OUTSIDE

Wildlife Information

Click here for information on West Orange Wildlife

Current Animal Rabies Cases in New Jersey

West orange animal welfare league

West Orange Animal Welfare League View our pets!