Stray Cats and Dogs
Washington Township encourages the responsible control of domestic animals on public and private properties. Domestic animals that are allowed to roam can be aggressive threats, and contribute to the continuing rabies problem in this region. Because domestic cats and dogs are the primary carriers of rabies to humans, stray cat and dog encounters with residents and park visitors are considered to be a serious safety concern.
Please be aware of the detrimental effects that feral and free-ranging domestic cats can have on native wildlife and natural ecosystems. Domestic cats are a significant factor in the mortality of desirable small mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. For these reasons, Washington Township requires that pets be properly confined and controlled.
Who Can You Call?
Report dogs running loose, and sick or injured stray dogs to the Franklin County Department of Animal Care and Control at (614) 525-3647. They have one or more animal control officers on duty 24 hours a day, year round. This agency also is responsible for enforcement of dog-related laws and operates the Franklin County dog Shelter & Adoption Center, 4340 Tamarack Blvd.
Columbus Humane, (614) 777-7387, will accept stray cats and other animals for a fee, if they have space available in their facility at 3015 Scioto-Darby Executive Court in Hilliard. In addition to taking in stray cats and other animals, they are also responsible for enforcing the law related to animal cruelty and neglect. If you suspect an animal is being neglected or abused, please call Columbus Humane immediately or file a report online anonymously.
Don’t Feed the Wildlife
Please refrain from feeding wildlife, including ducks and geese in the ponds. Regular feeding of wildlife can cause dependency on people for food, aggressive conflicts and the spread of disease. Observe, but avoid contact with wildlife.