Community Support
Cincinnati Animal CARE is the sole provider of Animal Control Services and the location of the Hamilton County Dog Wardens. Our Humane Agents and Deputy Wardens are on-call to provide Hamilton County with exceptional animal control services.
Notify Animal Control of a Concern or Complaint:
Our Mission
Our Officers are here to serve the people and pets of Hamilton County, while prioritizing public safety and enforcing Ohio Revised Code laws 955 (stray dogs) and 959 (cruelty and neglect). Our Officers look for opportunities in every interaction to assist and educate where appropriate.
Understanding Progressive Animal Control Services
Traditionally, Animal Control was dedicated to impounding animals, investigating cruelty and neglect, getting unsafe animals off the streets and using citations to enforce laws. Many of Ohio’s laws and ordinances were written over 70 years ago and do not reflect the value pets have in our homes and lives today.Â
In the last decade, these roles have expanded to include outreach/education, providing supplies and food, helping owners access veterinary services, and getting lost pets home quicker. Animal control has shifted from a primarily punitive to a supportive approach to enforcing laws and helping pets and people in our communities.Â
Public safety and law enforcement remain a top priority for Hamilton County’s Dog Warden/Animal Control, but now it also is widely recognized that the safety and health of animals is tied to the health of people.
When animal service focuses more on addressing the root causes that lead to public safety issues the community will be safer.Â
dog warden Feature:
River's Story
In June 2024, our Dog Wardens responded to a call about a damsel in distress needing rescue. A citizen had been trying to catch two lost dogs when one of the dogs scaled a fence and landed in the water. Our ever-ready team of Dog Wardens literally jumped into action to help the dog who found herself in the water!
Lt. Henry and Deputy Watkins climbed down to help her while Deputy trainees Harrison and Jennings developed a rescue plan and collected rope, pulley, harnesses, and a dog trap to assist in getting the dog safely back up to street level. Once safely back to the shelter, our dedicated intake team helped to make her feel loved and safe.
We're extremely proud of our Field Services team and our amazing Dog Wardens for the work they do day in and day out!
Interested in joining our Field Services team?
Cincinnati Animal CARE is always searching for passionate, driven, positive individuals to join our team. Please view our positions by clicking the button below and apply via our website, but please do not call the main shelter line to follow up on your application status.
Related Blog Posts
What to do if you find a Stray Dog in Hamilton County, Ohio
Finding a stray dog can be a stressful experience, but by following a few essential steps, you can ensure both your safety and the dog’s well-being.
Lost pet prevention: The Importance of microchipping
This blog post delves into the importance of microchipping your pet, highlighting its benefits and addressing common concerns.
CAC wins bid for 10-year animal services and dog warden contract!
CACÂ is thrilled to announce that their bid for the animal services contract for Hamilton County has been accepted, and now moves into the contracting phase.
