Animal control: lost pet, licensing and reports

What it is

Ottumwa’s Animal Control is part of the police department. It handles lost or loose dogs and cats, bites, cruelty and animal complaints.

If an animal is attacking someone right now, call 911.

You lost your pet

1. Call Animal Control as soon as possible and give the breed, color and where it was lost.
2. Ask if they have a picked-up animal that matches — loose animals usually go to a shelter.
3. Post in Ottumwa’s lost-pet Facebook groups.
4. To get it back there may be a fee, and they may ask for proof of vaccines.

You found a dog or cat

• Don’t chase it into the street. If you can, keep it safe with water.
• Call Animal Control to report it, so the owner can find it.

Your pet’s rules

• Keep your dog on a leash outside and pick up after it.
• Add a tag with your phone and, if you can, a microchip — the fastest way to get it back.
• Ottumwa may require a license and a current rabies shot. Confirm the requirements with the city.

Contact

• City Hall / police (non-emergency): 641-683-0600.

Fees, licenses and deadlines are set by the city. Confirm your case on the official page or by phone.