Animal Care & Control is a branch of the Department of Public Works, a department of the Columbus Georgia Consolidated Government.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How long do you keep an animal before they are available for adoption?
A. Surrendered animals are available immediately, stray animals held for 5 days.
Q. What age is recommended for animals to be spayed or neutered?
A. Please check with your vet.
Q. Why do you require animals to be spayed or neutered once adopted from the Animal Care & Control Center (ACCC)?
A. In an effort to control pet population or excessive breeding of animals done by irresponsible pet owners, a State Mandate/Law was passed requiring all dogs and cats adopted from shelters must be spayed or neutered. (GA Section 1-14-3)
Q. How old are the dogs or cats impounded at the ACCC?
A. Ninety percent (90%) of the animals impounded at the ACCC are stray animals. Therefore, age can only be estimated.
Q. What laws are commonly ignored by pet owners?
A. Rabies vaccination, city permits and leash laws (all dogs must be on a leash or in voice command when off the owner's property).
Q. Is there a limit to the number of pets I can have, specifically dogs or cats?
A. Yes, local law requires pet owners with six or more animals to obtain a Hobby/Kennel Permit/License.
NOTE: All violations of animal control ordinances are subject to fines of $1,000, or imprisonment of 90 days or both. State law violations are subject to more severe penalty.
Department of the Columbus, Georgia Consolidated Government