Services
Animal Control has the duty and responsibility to enforce animal-related North Carolina General Statutes and Gaston County Ordinances. The field operation, consisting of both sworn and non-sworn personnel, investigates animal-related complaints including nuisance, leash laws, animals on school grounds, rabies suspects, and reported cases of cruelty, abuse and neglect. Dangerous animal hearings are conducted, with the participation and assistance of the Animal Control Task Force Advisory Board, the Gaston Humane Society, and the Gaston County Veterinarian's Association, to determine whether or not an animal should be declared dangerous. By ordinance, binding confinement requirements may be directed. Animal Control is responsible for investigating animal bites and ensuring that the biting animal(s) are quarantined for rabies observation or processed for rabies testing. Rabies Prevention Tips
The administrative staff provides general clerical, accounting, bookkeeping and informational services, as well as processing requests for dog/cat licenses, pet adoptions, and reclaims. They calculate and collect fees, prepare data for licenses, past due notices, invoices, and assist citizens and callers by providing specific information concerning adoptions, reclaims of animals, State and County animal control ordinances, and other related matters.
Animal Control impounds and cares for stray, diseased, injured, and unwanted animals at the Animal Shelter. The animals are properly housed and cared for until owners either reclaim their pet, the animal is placed with a new owner through the Adoption-Medical Program, or the animal is humanely disposed of in accordance with State Law and County Ordinance.
Animal Control conducts, promotes, and sponsors educational and training seminars, sometimes through Gaston College, held at the college, the Agricultural Center, various schools and civic buildings, and the shelter itself. These workshops have been attended by personnel nationwide and the Gaston County Animal Control program has been recognized nationally by the National Association of Counties, as being one of the best in the state.
Some fees do apply for services.