Long gone is the term, "Dog Catcher." Animal professionals now perform a variety of services that help animals, as well as people. These services include, rescuing injured, abused and unwanted animals. Animal Control Officers respond to calls about neglected or lost animals and are often the first person to provide comfort and compassion to animals in need. Animal Control Officers notify worried pet owners that their beloved pets are safe and ready for reuniting with the owner and their families

Please provide for your pet's safety:

Keep a collar and identification tags, with contact information, on your pet at all times.

Ensure that your pet is always properly supervised or safely confined when you're not at home.

Spay or neuter your pet and keep him or her current on all necessary vaccinations, especially vaccinations for rabies.

License your dog(s) yearly with the Dedham Town Clerk's Office and secure tags to your dog's collar. In accordance with Massachusetts State Law and Town of Dedham regulations, all dogs six (6) months of age, or older, must be licensed annually. Licensing for the 2022 year must be done by April 1 to avoid late fees and fines. Visit the Town Clerk's page to learn more and to find out how to apply for or  renew a license.

NO LOST OR STRAY DOG CAN BE RETURNED TO THEIR OWNER WITHOUT AN UP TO DATE DEDHAM DOG LICENSE

MOST OF ALL...PROTECT, ENJOY, AND CARE FOR YOUR ANIMALS AT ALL TIMES

Please Do Not Feed the Wildlife

Listed below are suggestions from MassWildlife that can help to protect ourselves and wildlife and contribute to a calm coexistence:

• Use native plants, bird houses, and fresh water instead of bird feeders to attract birds.
• If you have bird feeders, keep an eye out for other wildlife eating the fallen seeds and bring in immediately to not attract larger animals.
• Choose plants based on your soil to create safe habitat, natural food, and cover.
• Do not leave food outside for wildlife to consume. This will encourage them to return and attract more animals.
• Do not throw food scraps on the ground, in your garden, or in your yard. This can create health issues, cause aggression, and attract large crowds of animals that may spread disease to other wildlife.
• If you use a compost bin, make sure it can securely close.
• Keep pet food and water indoors.
• Do not approach wildlife, even to get a photo. Respect their space and they will respect yours.

Urban Coyote Information

 https://urbancoyoteinitiative.com/10-fascinating-facts-about-urban-coyotes/