Animal Control
Dogs diverging?...Cats cavorting?...
The the issue of stray animals continues to be a topic of discussion in Afton. Even though the definition of “stray” may mean different things to different people, the city would like to put as many pets as possible back into their owner’s hands without calling animal control. This will minimize out-of-pocket costs to residents and costs to the “city” (which, again, means costs to residents, through property taxes).
Afton does not require a city license for dogs or cats, but owners are strongly encouraged to microchip their animals and use collars with I.D. tags.
If an animal that is friendly and looks well-cared-for wanders into your yard, garage, or neighborhood-- ask neighbors if they know the animal’s owner.
If you are an owner who has "lost" a pet, you may contact City Hall & visit the city website to check for "found" animals.
The city is charged for picked up and impounded animals. Animals are impounded and held for the state required stray hold of 5 business days at Otter Lake Animal Care Center, 6848 Otter Lake Road, Hugo. After the stray hold, animals are transferred to foster based 501c3 rescues to search for new adoptive homes. Owners are responsible for reclaim fees of impounded animals and may be invoiced by the city for animal control service reimbursement.
For more information on ways to find your pet visit: https://www.companionanimalcontrol.com/findingyourpet.
For more information on steps to take if you've found an animal visit: https://www.companionanimalcontrol.com/foundanimal.
1) If the animal has no injuries: Confine the animal safely.
2) Get a good description (or better yet) take digital pictures.
3) Check with neighbors—has it just wandered away?
4) Post pictures/contact info around the neighborhood for LOST or FOUND animals.
5) As a last resort OR if the animal has injuries, call Animal Control, Brittany Harmon. The animal will be taken immediately to: Otter Lake Animal Care Center, 6848 Otter Lake Road, Hugo, MN 55038.
6) If you have lost an animal, you can call Animal Control 1-715-220-1332 and Otter Lake Animal Care Center 1-651-426-8871 to see if someone has found them.