animal control

[an-uh-muhl kuhn-trohl]

noun

1. a government entity that takes custody of stray domestic animals and facilitates their return to or placement in a home environment, defends animals from abuse and neglect, and protects the public from aggressive or dangerous animals.

   Someone needs to call animal control to deal with the feral cats in this neighborhood.

Word History and Origins

Origin of animal control¹

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

Animal control officers responded and were able to keep the dogs back while the neighbor went to her vehicle.

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“Myself, my lieutenant and one of our animal control officers had gone out. We were allowed on the property at first, and we kind of saw the condition of the animals,” he said.

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Animals that come from shelters, animal control facilities, humane societies and animal rescue organizations will still be able to be sold.

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The incinerator is usually used by animal control officers to dispose of euthanised animals, but local authorities said it can also be used by law enforcement to burn seized narcotics.

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If you spot one during the day, check closely to see if it is carrying a sack of birdseed or any Acme packaging before contacting animal control.

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