Ottawa County Sheriff's Office
Animal Control
Ottawa County Sheriff's Office Animal Control is responsible for handling animal complaints within Ottawa County. Animal Control Deputies routinely investigate complaints regarding the handling and care of companion animals, to include abuse/neglect situations and dangerous animals. While Ottawa County Animal Control Deputies are concerned with the humane treatment of animals, their primary goal is that of preserving human health.
Animal Control Deputies regularly pick-up stray cats and dogs and assist in reuniting owners with lost pets. In addition, they perform the following duties:
- Investigating housing and care of farm domestics
- Investigation of animal cruelty complaints
- Determining the origin of stock losses
- Enforcing state animal control laws, including licensing statutes
- Providing kennel inspections and licensing
- Documenting animal bite reports
- Providing information on wild animal issues
- Providing permits for wolf-dogs and large carnivores
- B.A.R.K. Program taught in local elementary schools
- Follow-up on dog license violations
- Investigating abandoned and impounded motor vehicles.
The B.A.R.K. Program (Be Aware Responsible & Kind) dog bite prevention is taught in local schools in Ottawa County by Animal Control personnel. This is the second year of this program and it has become very well received by the schools and parents of the children. Deputy Todd Taylor is available for questions or comments regarding the B.A.R.K. Program by email.
