Carmel Clay Communications Center

Animal Control Policy

It is not uncommon for persons to see wild animals or ask for assistance or instruction regarding sick or injured animals.

At the heart of every decision is the question “are people in danger”? If YES, CPD will respond.

Otherwise, Carmel Communication dispatch personnel shall follow the policy directive as issued by the Carmel Police Department which is summarized as follows:

A. CPD will respond to dogs and cats running at large, nuisance etc.

B. CPD will respond to wild animals that are endangering people.

C. CPD will NOT respond to wild animals running at large unless it is a public safety concern. Communications will make radio announcement of the sighting to alert patrol officers to keep a watchful eye for the animal.

D. If a citizen traps a wild animal CPD will NOT transport the animal.

E. If someone traps a dog or cat:

Option I.
a. CPD asks that the dispatcher provide the caller with the address and telephone number of the Hamilton County Humane Shelter (HCHS) so the citizen can transport the animal to the shelter during normal business hours. HCHS is located at 1712 Pleasant Street, Noblesville and can be contacted by calling 317-773-4974.

Option II.
a. If the caller is unable to transport (the animal) themselves, CPD asks that the dispatcher inform the caller to wait until normal business hours (8 AM to 4:30 PM) before expecting CPD officer(s) to arrive.

b. If the caller requests a deviation from the above policy, the dispatcher shall contact a supervisor so he/she can make the decision.

F. On a suspected injured/sick animal call, Communications shall dispatch an Officer to the scene and that Officer or Supervisor will evaluate the situation (ex. Sick/ Inj. raccoon may be destroyed or left).

G. Whenever in doubt about policy or procedure, Communications shall contact the on-duty Supervisor for the appropriate CPD response.