Our animal control officer (ACO) enforces both state laws and town ordinances regarding domesticated animals. The ACO issues warnings and summonses and prepares court cases when necessary. ACO responsibilities include ensuring all dogs are licensed and all dogs and cats are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
Common complaints include dogs running at large, nuisance barking, dog bites, and lost, found, or sick animals. Occasionally, the ACO assists with loose farm animals.
Although the ACO's role with wildlife is limited, the ACO responds to calls about suspected rabies and is willing to discuss nuisance animal problems with residents, making referrals to the Maine Warden Service or an animal damage control agent when appropriate.
The Towns of Brunswick and Freeport share the ACO position.
For more information on rabies, please visit Maine DHHS's rabies page. Additionally, a rabies prevention video is available on the Maine CDC’s YouTube channel.
