The Animal Control Division executes and enforces the provisions of the State and County Code dealing with animal regulations. This includes, but is not limited to nuisance wildlife, the apprehension of unlicensed dogs, picking up unwanted animals at the owner’s request, picking up injured and/or stray domestic animals, securing veterinary treatment when necessary, and transporting secured animals to the Tri-County Animal Shelter.

Animal Control is also tasked with the enforcement of Commercial Animal Establishment Licensing and rabies shots, cruelty and animal bite investigations, animals running at large, assisting other agencies (Maryland State Police, St Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, St. Mary’s County Health Department, St. Mary’s County Land Use and Growth Management, and Charles and Calvert County Animal Control), interfacing with other Humane Animal Groups, and responding to wildlife complaints. A Municipal Infraction Program has been initiated that is generating revenue as well as the reclaiming and boarding fees collected at the Tri-County Animal Shelter that in turn reduces St. Mary’s County percentage for running the shelter.

• Conduct Public Education Programs.

• Increase In-Service Training for Animal Wardens.

• Complete the Animal Control Disaster Preparedness Program.

• Revise current Animal Control Regulations.

• Implement Automated CAD System for Wardens.

• Institute a program for rabies and license checks.

• Improve inspection program for animal foster homes, kennels, boarding, and/or riding stables and
  pet shops.

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