Fall and Winter Hints from Animal Control

Although winter is still some time away, wildlife is on the move in anticipation of the coming months. Mother Nature provides them with a seasonal barometer, which is necessary for their survival. During the colder months, these critters are more apt to move closer to human environments in search of food, water, and shelter from the cold. 

It is much easier to prevent wildlife from establishing its presence in your home or on your property than it is to get rid of it once it is already settled. 

WILDLIFE has three BASIC NEEDS to proliferate; 
 1) Food/water
 2) Shelter
 3) Same Species/ Opposite sex

Preventative measures include: 

-cap all chimneys and vent pipes, 

-repair all openings on buildings and structures

- do not allow debris or clutter to accumulate on your property 

- cover all trash with secure lids that can not be opened easily, or use bungee cords to secure the lids

- do not feed domestic pets outside, do not encourage raccoons, deer, and squirrels by feeding them

- if your home is on the water, do not leave fish bait unprotected

-repair damaged screens

- screen or cover exhaust fan openings, louvers, and attic vents

-keep tree limbs cut back 6 to 8 feet from the roofline 

-store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home

-replace loose mortar and weather stripping around foundations and windows
house diagram

RABIES 

Remember to vaccinate all domestic animals against rabies. If you approach wildlife, it may be sick or injured, you should contact Animal Control Immediately. January 1st begins a new licensing year for dogs and cats, make sure to send your new rabies vaccination certificate in with your license application.

The Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter offers free rabies vaccinations every other Wednesday by appointment. To make an appointment please contact #(609)978-0127 or visit Ocean County Animal Shelters  for additional information. 

Please visit the links below for additional information on the rabies virus, pre-exposure immunizations and animal bite reporting

Rabies Pre and Post- Exposure Immunizations

Educational information on Rabies

Reporting Animal Bites

raccoon


Report all SUSPECTED ANIMAL CRUELTY

If you know of an incident where an animal is being neglected, abused, or is the victim of animal cruelty report it immediately to the police 609-597-8581, or Animal Control 609-597-1000 ext. 8525. It is against the law for any animal to be left outside in freezing temperatures or inclement weather conditions. 

For animal cruelty related offenses outside of Stafford Township please visit the link below and report to the appropriate agency.

Animal Cruelty Contact List by Municipality