Frequently Asked Questions

• How long do you keep an animal before they are available for adoption?
• Surrendered animals are available immediately, stray animals held for 5 days.
• What age is recommended for animals to be spayed or neutered?
• Please check with your vet.
• Why do you require animals to be spayed or neutered once adopted from the Animal Care & Control Center (ACCC)?
• 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)
• How old are the dogs or cats impounded at the ACCC?
• Ninety percent (90%) of the animals impounded at the ACCC are stray animals. Therefore, age can only be estimated.
• What laws are commonly ignored by pet owners?
• Rabies vaccination, city permits and leash laws (all dogs must be on a leash or in voice command when off the owner's property).
• Is there a limit to the number of pets I can have, specifically dogs or cats?
• 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.