Animal Control
Welcome to the City of Elko Animal Control Department. Our goal is promoting responsible care of animals for a safe, pet friendly community. As part of the Elko Police Department, the animal control officers enforce the provisions of City Code pursuant to Title 5, Chapter 3 and have several responsibilities and areas of focus which include:
Animal Bites Processing: In cases of animal bites, officers play a role in processing reports and ensuring that the appropriate actions are taken, such as quarantining animals for rabies, to prevent the spread of disease and to address any injuries or damages caused by the bite.
Animal Noise: Animal control officers may address complaints related to excessive noise caused by animals. This can involve investigating and addressing issues with barking dogs, crowing roosters, or other noisy pets that disrupt the peace and quiet of a neighborhood.
Animals Running at Large: One of the primary concerns is addressing animals that are allowed to roam freely, especially when it comes to dogs and other potentially dangerous animals. Officers may capture and impound animals found running at large to prevent potential hazards or harm to the community.
Animal Sanitation: Ensuring that pet owners maintain a clean and sanitary environment for their animals is a key responsibility. Officers may investigate cases of animal waste not being properly disposed of or unsanitary conditions that could pose health risks.
Dangerous or Vicious Animals: Identifying and addressing dangerous or vicious animals is crucial for public safety. Officers may investigate reports of aggressive animals and, if necessary, take appropriate actions such as impounding the animal or requiring the owner to take safety measures.
Welfare, Cruelty, and Neglect Investigations: Animal control officers often conduct investigations into cases of animal cruelty or neglect. This may involve situations where animals are not provided with adequate care, food, water, or shelter. When necessary, they may rescue and provide care for neglected or abused animals.
In addition to these specific responsibilities, animal control officers often work to educate the public about responsible pet ownership, licensing requirements, and local animal ordinances. They may also collaborate with local animal shelters, veterinarians, and other relevant agencies to ensure the welfare of animals in the community and to promote the safety and well-being of residents.
Dog/Cat Fancier's Permit
The city code places restrictions on the number of dogs and cats that can be kept in a residence within the City and requires a permit to exceed these limits. The purpose of these regulations is to address issues related to noise, sanitation, and animal welfare within residential areas. Key points are as follows:
Limit on Dogs and Cats: No person is allowed to keep more than three (3) dogs or three (3) cats that are over four (4) months of age at any location within the city where humans reside.
Fancier's Permit: Before exceeding these limits, a person must obtain a dog or cat fancier's permit from the city.
Maximum Number: Even with a fancier's permit, a person is still not allowed to keep and maintain more than a total of six (6) adult dogs or six (6) adult cats over the age of four (4) months.
Dog/Cat Special Use Permit (Breeder)
Limit on Dogs and Cats: No person is allowed to keep more than three (3) dogs or three (3) cats that are over four (4) months of age at any location within the city where humans reside.
Special Use Permit: Before exceeding these limits, a person must obtain a dog or cat special use permit from the City, and approved by City Council.
Maximum Number: Even with a special use permit, a person is still not allowed to keep and maintain more than a total of eight (8) dogs or ten (10) cats.
Katie Litchfield
Seth Robinson
Day & Hours of Operation
Monday-Thursday 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Friday-Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Closed Holidays
Dispatch
(775) 777-7300