Animal Control

The Animal Control Officer is a civilian member of the Police Department who is responsible for the overall enforcement of the municipal and state animal welfare laws. She responds to calls relating to domesticated animals and has a limited role when handling wild animals. The main concern with wild animals is rabies protection.

Stray Pets

All stray animals picked up by the Animal Control Officer are taken to the Animal Refuge League at 449 Stroudwater Street, in Westbrook, Maine.

Fees

Fees will be charged when you retrieve your animal.  A $15.00 per day fee is charged as well as a administrative fee of $25 for the first offense, $50 for a second offense, and $100 for three or more offenses.  These fees along with other fees many change at anytime, so you should contact the Animal Refuge League at 207-854-9771 to determine what you will be charged to recover your animal.

Wildlife

Other wildlife problems are handled by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.  A Game Warden can be reached at 207-657-2345.

State Laws

The listed laws below can provide you with some basic information on what the Animal Control Officer commonly enforces.  Because the laws in the State of Maine change on a frequent basis you should consult the Maine Revised Statues Annotated under: TITLE 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS.

Common Animal Welfare Laws