STRAY ANIMAL PROCEDURE

The Marshfield Police Department answers complaints involving dogs, cats, or other animals running at large within the city limits.  These complaints are referred to the Ordinance Control officer on duty.  In the absence of the Ordinance Control officer, the complaint is then given to an on-duty police officer.  Every attempt to capture the stray animal is made.

Uninjured animals with identification are returned to the owner as soon as practical after the department established procedure is followed.

Uninjured animals with no identification are impounded at the Park View Pet Motel located on South Lincoln Avenue.  This is a private kennel that the city of Marshfield has contracted with.  Should the owner be located, the animal is returned after the proper procedure is followed.

Release of Dog or Cat

The dog or cat may be released to its owner or a representative of the owner if:

1.               The owner or representative gives the owners names and address

2.               The owner or representative represents evidence the dog or cat is licensed and presents evidence that this dog or cat is vaccinated against rabies or arrangements are made with a licensed veterinarian for the rabies inoculation.

3.               The owner or representative pays the boarding fees and the impoundment fees for the dog or cat

Injured domestic animals are examined or treated by a veterinarian prior to impoundment, while all attempts shall be made to contact the owner.  The veterinarian shall determine the severity of the injury and course of action to take.  However, if the animal is so badly injured, and the humanitarian course requires it be put out of its suffering, it may be subject to euthanasia in accordance to Ordinance Control established procedures.

Minor health problems such as worms or respiratory infections are taken care of by the North Wood County Humane Society, bringing the animal back to good health with proper medical attention before adoption.

Attempts are made to notify the owner via the Marshfield News Herald and Buyers Guide ads, WDLB Radio Station including “Roll Call”, “Pet Net” cable 2 access channel and the help of the North Wood County Humane Society web site. 

In accordance with state statute, all impounded stray domestic animals are held for a minimum of seven days.  On the eighth day these animals are available for adoption and/or are subject to euthanasia.  In most cases, where the animal is evaluated and determined appropriate for adoption, the Park View Pet Motel takes over the care of the animal, giving it extra time.  Many of these strays may stay 10-20+ days before becoming adopted.

Fees: (as of 1/1/00)

      $20.00 Impoundment fee

        $7.39 Dog boarding cost per calendar day

        $3.69 Cat boarding cost per calendar day

Example:

A stray dog is picked up at 11:00 p.m. on the 12th.  The owner picks up the dog on the 13^th. 

This equals two (2) calendar days.

            $20.00 = impoundment fee

            $12.60 = boarding cost for 2 days ($6.30 x 2)

            $32.60 = Total Amount Due