Dog Control Officer

 

Jon-Morgan Christian
(518) 335-8559

 

Please note: No email address exists for this department. Please use telephone information above.

Dog Complaint Form (PDF)

Duties & Responsibilities

The Town of Essex hires an individual as a dog control officer as a part-time employee. In addition, the town contracts with North Country SPCA for shelter services. The dog control officer, as required by Agricultural and Markets Law, performs the following duties:

  • Enforces licensing

  • Seizes and impounds dogs

  • Brings an action against any person who has committed any violation of Article 7

  • Receives complaints of dangerous dogs and commences dangerous dog proceedings

  • Enforces deer depredation and night quarantine orders and local dog control laws and ordinances

Some of the typical duties of the officer include seizing and impounding stray and dangerous dogs. The officer also receives and answers complaints from the public regarding dog nuisances using state statutes and local ordinances and laws as a guide. They issue appearance summons and arrest warrants and participates in court proceedings including the preparation of reports and providing information, testimony, and evidence. They enforce quarantine laws and orders applicable to dogs. They investigate reports of cruelty to animals and report sick or injured animals to veterinarians for corrective action.

Dog Redemption Process By Town

Each town/city charges a redemption fee to the owner for the release of a dog picked up by its Dog Control Officer. This fee is collected by North Country SPCA and transferred in full to the appropriate town. Each town/city determines their redemption rates. Per New York State Agriculture and Markets Law, prior to the release of a dog to the owner, proof of license and rabies must be provided. All are seven day hold redemption periods.

Town/City Redemption Rate - Flat rate $25

Important Links