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1. Who picks up dead animals?

Athens-Clarke County does pick up dead animals in the street or on the right of way. Dead animals on private property can be disposed of by private wildlife removal companies or by transporting them to the ACC Landfill.

• Outside Urban Service District (area where residential waste is collected by private haulers): ACC Transportation and Public Works Department Streets and Drainage Division – 706-613-3465
• Inside Urban Service District (area where residential waste is collected by ACC Solid Waste): ACC Solid Waste Department – 706-613-3501
• State roads (any road maintained by the state in Athens-Clarke County): GA Department of  Transportation – 706-583-2644

2. Do I have to buy a pet license?

No, there is no pet licensing in Athens-Clarke County. However, all dogs and cats must have current rabies vaccinations and must display a current rabies tag at all times. 

Rabies tags are obtained from the veterinarian’s office where the vaccination is given.

3. What is the process for adoption?

The process begins when a potential adopter fills out an adoption application either at the shelter or printed from our website. The application can be hand delivered or faxed.

We accept applications on a first-come, first-serve basis. Once the application is received, we will provide the potential adopter with an appointment date and time to adopt. 

We encourage potential adopters to call before coming to their appointment to determine if an owner reclaimed the dog or another potential adopter ahead of them in line adopted the dog. The adoption fee is $50. 

Animal Services will transport the dog to a local veterinarian’s office for neutering or spaying. The adopter must pay for the surgery at the time the dog is picked up from the veterinarian’s office. Once the adopter submits a copy of the receipt showing the surgery has been done, the adopter will receive a refund check for $25 by mail.

4. How do I make a complaint about a barking dog?

Animal Services handles complaints of barking dogs during regular business hours only. We respond to these complaints by issuing a written warning to the owner at the time of the first complaint. 

If we receive another complaint within 90 days, we will issue a citation to the owner provided that at least two adult witnesses sign a written statement and agree to appear in Municipal Court to testify about the complaint. 

View the Barking Dogs Complaint Form.

5. What should I do if my dog gets lost?

We recommend that you come to the Animal Shelter at 125 Buddy Christian Way and determine if the dog is here first. If not, Animal Services can take a detailed lost report that we can use to identify the dog if it is brought in to us later. 

The Athens Banner-Herald newspaper will run a free lost dog notice in their classified advertisement section if you call 706-549-0123. 

Before posting signs, check with the Code Enforcement Division at 706-613-3790 regarding where signs may be posted.