Where can I call to have a dog picked up? - briefly
If you need assistance with a stray or lost dog, you should contact your local animal control agency. This service is typically provided by the city or county government and can be reached through the non-emergency police line.
Where can I call to have a dog picked up? - in detail
If you need assistance with picking up a stray or lost dog, there are several organizations and services you can contact depending on your location and the specific situation.
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Local Animal Control: Many cities and towns have an animal control department that is responsible for handling stray animals. They typically have a dedicated phone number where you can report a stray dog. The staff will be able to provide guidance and, if necessary, dispatch a team to pick up the animal. To find your local animal control agency, you can search online or check your city's official website.
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Animal Shelters: Animal shelters often work closely with animal control departments and may also have resources to help with stray dogs. They can provide advice on how to safely contain the dog until a professional arrives. Additionally, if the dog is not microchipped or wearing identification tags, the shelter might be able to scan for a microchip and attempt to contact the owner. You can find local shelters by searching online or through your community's resources.
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Humane Societies: Local humane societies are another valuable resource. They often have programs in place to handle stray animals and may provide assistance with pick-up services. Similar to animal shelters, they can also check for microchips and try to reunite the dog with its owner. Contact information for local humane societies can usually be found on their respective websites.
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Veterinary Clinics: While veterinary clinics do not typically offer pick-up services for stray dogs, they can be a valuable resource for information and advice. Veterinarians may know about local organizations that specialize in handling strays and can provide guidance on how to best care for the dog until it can be picked up by professionals.
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Non-profit Organizations: There are several non-profit organizations dedicated to animal welfare that might offer assistance with stray dogs. These organizations often have volunteers who can help with pick-up services and can provide additional support in caring for the animal. Examples include the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the Humane Society of the United States.
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Police Department: In some cases, contacting your local police department might be necessary, especially if the dog appears aggressive or is causing a public disturbance. Police officers are trained to handle such situations and can coordinate with animal control services to ensure the safety of both the public and the animal.
When calling any of these services, be prepared to provide detailed information about the dog's appearance, location, and any observed behavior. This will help the professionals respond appropriately and efficiently.