what is rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease of mammals, usually occurring among wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, bats and foxes. Sometimes these wild animals infect domestic cats, dogs and livestock.
how can rabies be prevented?
Make certain that all owned dogs and cats are regularly vaccinated for rabies by a veterinarian.
Are dogs required to be licensed?
Yes, O.C.G.A. 31-19- 3 requires governing authorities of each county and municipality to require regulation or licensing of animals in the control of rabies. This is state mandated and the goal of the licensing program is to prevent against the outbreaks of rabies. The licensing process also provides documentation to assist in reuniting your pet with you in the unfortunate event he or she is lost.
what is the cost to license my dog?
If your dog has been spayed or neutered, the fee is $3.00 per dog. If the dog has not been spayed or neutered, the fee is $5.00 per dog.
are there restrictions in the city limits on the number of animals i may have?
Yes, It shall be unlawful for any person to own, harbor or keep more than four (4) dogs and cats of six (6) months of age or older, of which no more than two (2) of said animals shall be dogs, or three (3) of said animals shall be cats. Ordinance #02-1303
how long does the animal shelter keep animals?
The Humane Society is required by local ordinances to hold all animals at the shelter for a period of seventy-two (72) hours or (3 days) at which time they then become property of the Humane Society. After this time frame, the Humane Society is authorized and permitted to place the animal for adoption.
does the animal shelter accept donations of blankets, towels, or other items?
Yes, all items are needed, including toys, dog food, cat food, cat litter, cleaning supplies, etc. Donations are tax deductible. Feel free to contact the Animal Shelter for any specific needs.
how can i get an injured or dead animal removed from the roadway?
During normal working hours, contact the Fitzgerald Police Department at (229) 426-5000. If after working hours, contact 911.
if i have lost my pet, what should i do?
First, check your neighborhood and ask anyone if they have seen your pet. Contact the Animal Shelter and provide a description of the pet and see if it has been delivered to the shelter. You may also stop by the Animal Shelter during normal work hours.
do you board animals?
No, the Animal Shelter does not have the space to board privately owned pets and would not want to expose your pet(s) to any diseases that may reach our facility through lost or stray animals.
if i adopt an animal, do i have to get it spayed or neutered?
Yes, it is required that all animals adopted from the Shelter be spayed or neutered by their adopter. The fee you pay for adoption includes the costs for the spay/neuter process.
what should i do if interested in volunteering?
The Animal Shelter is always looking for volunteers to help with fund raisers and the daily operation of the animal shelter. In order to volunteer you must not have been convicted of any crime against animals or children or a crime violent in nature. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the Animal Shelter.