Animal Control

After-Hours Call-Out Policy 

The Ogden Police Department Animal Control team is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community and its animals. To help us serve you effectively, please note the following guidelines for when Animal Control Officers may be called out over the weekends. The Ogden Police Department Animal Control team is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community and its animals. To help us serve you effectively, please note the following guidelines for when Animal Control Officers may be called out over the weekends.

When Animal Control Officers Will Be Called Out

Animal Control Officers may be dispatched during weekends for urgent situations that pose immediate risks to health or safety, including:

1. Aggressive at-large dogs that have bitten someone, attacked another animal, or are an immediate safety risk.
2. Animal bites requiring immediate investigation, especially when the victim is receiving medical treatment.
3. Wild animals inside homes or apartments that threaten resident safety.
4. Loose livestock on public roads or highways. (Note: Weber County primarily handles these cases; Animal Control will assist as needed.)
5. Police assistance, such as custody of animals during arrests, search warrants, or when an owner is deceased.
6. Sick, injured, or distressed animals in immediate danger without owner care, including cases of cruelty or neglect.
7. Animals suspected of carrying rabies.

When Animal Control Officers WILL NOT Be Called Out

Certain situations are not considered emergencies and will wait for on-duty officers during regular business hours. These include:

• Non-aggressive stray or at-large animals.
• Confined stray animals unless aggressive.
• Animals captured in traps unless in distress.
• Dead animals.
• Barking dog complaints.
• Delayed reports of bites or violations.
• Any standard service call that does not require immediate attention.

Best Practices for Dealing with Animals at Large

If you encounter an animal at large, follow these safety tips:

• Do not approach the animal: You may not know if the animal is aggressive or prone to biting.
• Observe and document: Note the animal's appearance, behavior, and location. Take a photo if possible, as this can help when filing a report.
• Report the incident: Contact Animal Control during weekday business hours to file a report.

General Safety Tips When Dealing with Animals

• Approach with caution: Move slowly and calmly, using soft noises to alert the animal to your presence.
• Observe body language: Watch for signs like flattened ears, raised fur, or growling, which can indicate stress or aggression.
• Respect their space: Give the animal plenty of room to move freely and avoid cornering them.
• Never provoke: Avoid teasing, startling, or making sudden movements that could be perceived as threatening.
• Use a calm voice: Speak softly and soothingly when interacting with animals.
• Know your limitations: If you are unsure how to handle an animal, seek guidance from a professional or experienced handler.

Recognizing Warning Signs of Stress or Aggression

• Flattened ears: Indicates discomfort or anxiety.
• Raised fur: Suggests aggression or fear, depending on the species.
• Tail wagging: A rapid, low wag can indicate nervousness or tension in dogs.
• Direct eye contact: May be interpreted as a challenge.
• Growling, hissing, or lip curling: Clear warnings of potential aggression.
• Cowering or freezing: Signs of feeling trapped or threatened.

Specific Animal Safety Considerations

• Dogs: Never approach without the owner’s permission and avoid dogs guarding food or territory.
• Cats: Respect their space and avoid sudden movements.
• Wild animals: Maintain a safe distance and never approach closely.
• Livestock: Move slowly and avoid sudden noises or movements that could startle them.

Understanding the Rules

To help residents better understand their responsibilities, here are two key city codes related to animals:

• Ogden City Code 13-2-6A: Animal at Large
  Animals must not roam freely off the owner’s property without proper restraint. Learn more at Ogden City Code 13-2-6A.
• Ogden City Code 13-2-2: Animal Licensing
  All dogs, cats, and ferrets must be licensed with the city to ensure proper identification and vaccination. Details are available at Ogden City Code 13-2-2.

Licensing Fees

Senior citizens age 60 or older may license their pets at a 20% discount from the posted fees.

Additional Resources

For more information on adopting, fostering, or owner surrenders, visit the Weber County Animal Shelter at Weber County Animal Shelter.

How to Report an Animal Issue:

• Emergencies: Call 911 or the Ogden Police non-emergency line to report situations requiring immediate assistance.
• Non-Emergencies: Please report issues online or during regular business hours to Weber Dispatch at 801-395-8221.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us prioritize critical incidents. Together, we can ensure the safety of our community and its animals.

Animal Control Hours of Operation

Animal Control Officers are available during regular business hours:
Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.