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The city employs a full time Humane Officer, who is responsible for enforcing the city and state laws governing the keeping, registration, vaccination, and sanitation of domestic animals. In addition, the Humane Officer enforces the hunting laws of the city and the state of Ohio.    

The Humane Officer responds to all animal related calls while on duty. When the Humane Officer is notavailable, members of the Patrol Bureau respond to and enforce the animal laws. If the Humane Officer's expertise or unique training is required, he may be called in to assist the members of Patrol Bureau at any time.

In 2007, the Humane Officer responded to 1,270 calls for service and captured 565 animals. In addition, 136 citations were issued for violations of the law.

The Humane officer does not handle nuisance animals, such as skunks or raccoons. However, a limited number of humane animal traps are available to city residents to assist with the capture nuisance animals. Once the animals are trapped, the Humane Officer will collect the trap.There is no cost for the traps, but positive identification is required. Contact the Police Department for more information.