Animal Control
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Livingston County Animal Control (on Google Maps)
844 W. Lincoln Street, Pontiac, IL 61764
Phone: (815)842-8021
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Livingston County Animal Control operates under the jurisdiction of the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office. Its funding is derived from dog registrations, fines and fees. Our primary objective is to safeguard public safety and guarantee the compassionate treatment of animals by providing shelter, facilitating pet adoptions, promoting education, and enforcing animal laws.
If your dog is missing, contact Animal Control at 815-842-8021. Ensuring that your pet’s details are current will facilitate the search process. Remember to have the following information on hand when contacting Animal Control: the Livingston County rabies registration tag, your pet’s veterinarian records including routine vaccinations, photographs of your pet, the microchip number, and emergency contact information.
The holding time for animals picked up by Animal Control varies depending on whether they have a known owner or not. Animals with no known owner are held for a period of 3 full business days. However, if an owner is identified during this time, the holding period is extended to 7 business days to give the owner an opportunity to reclaim their animal. Once the required holding time has elapsed, the animals are assessed for the adoption program. Occasionally, we receive dogs that have been voluntarily relinquished by their owners or strays that have not been claimed. It is important to note that we are not a no-kill shelter.
To learn more about pet registration information, click here.
Adoption Program
If you are interested in adopting, please contact animal control by phone or email to schedule a meet and greet. Each dog that has not been spayed or neutered yet will come with a low-cost voucher to cover the procedure, as well as basic vaccines. Additionally, they will be microchipped before going to their forever homes. Prospective adopters must meet the following requirements: be at least 18 years old, possess a photo ID with a current address, complete an adoption application, pay the necessary adoption fees, own their property permanently, or provide proof from their landlord allowing pets. Current pets must be vaccinated for rabies and registered with the county of residence. The fees involved are as follows: Registration fee $10, Adoption fee $50, Microchip fee $30
Low Cost Spay/Neuter Program
Livingston County provides a Population Control Program to eligible residents, collaborating with nearby veterinarians to provide affordable spay/neuter services. The program actively encourages local veterinarians to take part and ensures they are duly compensated for their valuable services. For further information and to submit your application, kindly click here.
Wildlife and Bat Information
If a wild animal is discovered on your property, it is advised to contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) for assistance. In many cases, IDNR suggests hiring a nuisance wildlife control operator (NWCO) due to safety concerns. NWCOs are required to pass a test conducted by the IDNR to acquire their commercial permit, and they must adhere to specific protocols for capturing, handling, and relocating animals. These experts can effectively remove the animal(s) from your property for a fee.
If a bat is discovered in your home, it is important to exercise caution. Bats typically pose little threat when flying outdoors at night. However, if you encounter a bat that is active during the day, struggling on the ground, or located in an unusual area like inside a house, it is best to steer clear. Avoid touching the bat intentionally. In the event of a bite, it is advisable to contact Animal Control for assistance.