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For dog bites or aggressive animals posing immediate danger, please call 911

General Questions

What is Louisville Animal Control?

Louisville Animal Control is a private animal control service provider for Louisville Metro and surrounding areas. We are a professional company that provides comprehensive animal management services including domestic animal control and wildlife removal services.

What areas do you serve?

We provide services throughout Louisville Metro and several surrounding communities in Jefferson County including Jeffersontown, Anchorage, Middletown, and Shively. For a detailed breakdown of our service areas and response times, please visit our Service Area page.

What are your hours of operation?

We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. Our services are available around the clock for both emergency and non-emergency situations, though pricing may vary for after-hours, weekend, and holiday service calls.

How do I contact Louisville Animal Control?

You can contact us through multiple channels:

  • Phone: (502) 483-7387 (available 24/7)
  • Email: info@louisvilleanimalcontrol.com
  • Online: Through our Contact Form or Report a Problem page
  • In Person: Visit our office at 3528 Newburg Rd, Louisville, KY 40218

Is Louisville Animal Control the same as Louisville Metro Animal Services?

No, we are completely separate organizations with different functions. Louisville Animal Control (us) is a private company that handles animal control and wildlife management services on a fee basis. Harshaw Family Foundation Animal Shelter is the government-operated animal control and shelter facility that handles animal adoption, pet licensing, and enforcement of animal-related laws and ordinances.

For dog bites, aggressive dogs, or situations posing immediate public danger, please call 911 or Harshaw Family Foundation Animal Shelter directly. Our private services are ideal for wildlife conflicts, nuisance animal issues, and non-emergency animal situations.

Is Louisville Animal Control the same as Harshaw Family Foundation Animal Shelter?

No, we are completely separate organizations with different functions. Louisville Animal Control (us) is a private company that handles animal control and wildlife management services on a fee basis. Harshaw Family Foundation Animal Shelter is the government-operated animal control and shelter facility that handles animal adoption, pet licensing, and enforcement of animal-related laws and ordinances.

For dog bites, aggressive dogs, or situations posing immediate public danger, please call 911 or Harshaw Family Foundation Animal Shelter directly. Our private services are ideal for wildlife conflicts, nuisance animal issues, and non-emergency animal situations.

Domestic Animal Services

What should I do if I see a stray dog or cat?

If you see a stray animal and would like our assistance, please contact us promptly. Try to note the animal's location, appearance, and behavior. If the animal appears friendly and approachable, and you can safely do so, you might try to check for ID tags. Never approach aggressive or frightened animals. Report the stray by calling our office at (502) 483-7387 or using our online reporting system.

Please note that as a private company, our services to pick up stray animals are fee-based. For free stray animal pickup, contact Harshaw Family Foundation Animal Shelter.

What happens to animals after they are picked up?

When we pick up domestic animals, we first check for identification (microchips, tags, etc.) to attempt to reunite them with their owners. Animals without identification are transported to the Harshaw Family Foundation Animal Shelter where they are held for the legally required holding period. After this period, animals may become available for adoption. Injured animals are provided with necessary veterinary care.

How do I reclaim my pet if it was picked up by Animal Control?

If your pet has been picked up and taken to the Harshaw Family Foundation Animal Shelter, you will need to contact them directly to arrange reclaiming your pet. You will need to provide proof of ownership (photos, vet records, etc.) and pay any applicable fees.

What should I do about my neighbor's barking dog?

For barking dog complaints, we recommend first trying to speak with your neighbor directly about the issue. If that doesn't resolve the problem, you can file a noise complaint with Harshaw Family Foundation Animal Shelter as they have enforcement authority for animal-related ordinances. As a private company, we do not have authority to enforce noise ordinances, but we can provide consultation on deterrents and solutions for a fee.

Do you help with trapped or injured domestic animals?

Yes, assisting with trapped or injured domestic animals is a service we provide. If you discover an injured domestic animal or one that is trapped or in distress on your property, please call our line at (502) 483-7387. We will dispatch a specialist to safely retrieve the animal and arrange for appropriate veterinary care if needed. As a private service, fees will apply based on the specific situation.

Wildlife Services

What types of wildlife do you remove?

We handle a wide range of wildlife species including but not limited to:

  • Raccoons, opossums, and skunks
  • Squirrels and other rodents
  • Bats and birds
  • Snakes and other reptiles
  • Deer (management consultation)
  • Foxes, coyotes, and other mammals

Our specialists are trained in the proper handling and removal techniques for each species, ensuring both human safety and animal welfare.

Is it legal for me to remove wildlife myself?

While homeowners can legally address certain nuisance wildlife situations on their own property in Kentucky, many species are protected by state or federal laws that restrict handling, trapping, and relocation. Additionally, improper removal often leads to orphaned young, property damage, or animal welfare concerns. Professional removal ensures legal compliance, proper techniques, and humane treatment.

What happens to wildlife after you remove them?

Our approach to wildlife removal prioritizes humane handling and minimizing stress to the animals. Depending on the species, local regulations, and the animal's condition, we may:

  • Relocate healthy wildlife to appropriate habitats away from residential areas (when permitted by law)
  • Transfer injured or orphaned wildlife to licensed wildlife rehabilitators
  • Use exclusion methods that allow animals to exit but not re-enter structures

Our procedures comply with all state and federal wildlife regulations and focus on long-term, humane solutions.

How can I prevent wildlife from entering my home?

Preventing wildlife entry involves several important steps:

  • Conduct regular property inspections to identify potential entry points
  • Seal gaps, cracks, and holes in your home's exterior, paying special attention to roof lines, vents, and foundation
  • Install chimney caps and vent covers
  • Remove attractants like accessible food sources, unsecured trash, and fallen fruit
  • Trim tree branches that provide roof access
  • Keep outdoor cooking areas clean
  • Consider installing wildlife deterrents appropriate for your situation

Our wildlife specialists can provide a customized prevention plan during a property assessment (service fees apply).

Do you use humane methods for wildlife removal?

Yes, Louisville Animal Control emphasizes humane wildlife management in all our operations. We avoid poisons, which can cause suffering and secondary poisoning of non-target animals. Our preferred methods include exclusion techniques, one-way doors, and live trapping when necessary. All our procedures comply with guidelines from wildlife management authorities and the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Reporting & Response

How do I report an animal problem?

You can report animal problems through several channels:

  • Phone: Call (502) 483-7387 (available 24/7)
  • Online: Use our online reporting form
  • In Person: Visit our office during business hours

Please provide as much detail as possible about the animal and the situation to help us respond appropriately. After your report is reviewed, we'll provide service options and pricing information.

IMPORTANT: For dog bites or aggressive animals posing immediate danger, please call 911.

How quickly will someone respond to my report?

Response times vary based on several factors:

  • Emergency situations: 30-60 minutes (injured wildlife in public spaces, wildlife in living areas, animals trapped in dangerous locations)
  • Urgent situations: 1-3 hours (contained stray animals, wildlife in garages or outbuildings, snakes inside homes)
  • Standard service: Same-day to 24 hours (wildlife in attics, animals under decks or porches, recurring nuisance wildlife)
  • Scheduled service: 1-3 business days (inspections, exclusion services, follow-up visits)

These times may be affected by weather conditions, call volume, and your location. Emergency situations receive priority response. Expedited service may incur additional fees.

What information should I provide when reporting an animal issue?

When reporting an animal issue, please provide:

  • Exact location of the animal (address, landmarks, etc.)
  • Type of animal and detailed description (species, size, color, distinctive features)
  • The animal's behavior (injured, trapped, etc.)
  • How long the animal has been there
  • Any immediate safety concerns
  • Your contact information for follow-up and service scheduling

Photos or videos of the animal can be extremely helpful if you can safely obtain them.

Can I remain anonymous when reporting an animal issue?

Since we are a private, fee-based service, we require contact information from customers in order to provide service quotes and schedule appointments. Anonymous reports cannot be processed as we need to discuss service options and pricing with you before dispatching a technician.

What should I do while waiting for animal control to arrive?

While waiting for our team to arrive:

  • Maintain a safe distance from the animal, especially if it appears injured or distressed
  • If possible, keep the animal in sight so you can direct our specialists upon arrival
  • Do not attempt to contain or approach unfamiliar animals
  • For wildlife in your home, close off access to other parts of your house if possible
  • Keep pets and children away from the area

Your safety is the priority, so never put yourself at risk while waiting for our team.

Fees & Payment

Do you charge for animal control services?

Yes, as a private company, all our services are fee-based. We provide detailed quotes before performing any service, so you'll know the exact cost upfront. Our pricing varies depending on:

  • Type of animal and situation
  • Complexity of the removal
  • Time of day, weekend, or holiday service
  • Location and accessibility
  • Additional services needed (exclusion, cleanup, etc.)

We never charge without discussing costs with you first and getting your approval.

How much does wildlife removal typically cost?

Wildlife removal costs vary depending on several factors:

  • Species involved and extent of the infestation
  • Location of the animals (attic, walls, crawl space, etc.)
  • Size and accessibility of your property
  • Required removal methods
  • Necessary exclusion work to prevent re-entry
  • Any specialized equipment needed

After an initial inspection, we provide a detailed written estimate for your specific situation. Basic wildlife assessments typically start at $197, with full removal services ranging from $497-$797+ depending on complexity.

Do you offer payment plans for larger services?

Yes, for larger wildlife removal or exclusion projects, we offer flexible payment plans to help make these necessary services more affordable. Typically, we require a portion of the fee upfront with the balance payable upon completion or in installments for extensive projects. Please discuss payment options with your service coordinator during the estimation process.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept multiple payment methods for your convenience:

  • Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)
  • Checks (personal and business)
  • Cash
  • Electronic payments (PayPal, Venmo)
  • Insurance (for qualifying property damage situations)

Is there a fee for estimates or inspections?

Basic phone consultations are always free. For in-person property inspections and assessments, we charge a nominal fee of $197, which is credited toward the cost of any services you choose to proceed with. Emergency assessments do not incur an inspection fee if service is performed.

Can't Find Your Answer?

If you haven't found the information you're looking for, please contact us directly. Our team is ready to assist with your specific questions and provide service quotes.

All services are fee-based - Available 24/7