The St. Charles County Division of Humane Services is responsible for enforcing the St. Charles County Animal Control Ordinance. This ordinance is intended to assist and protect the residents of the unincorporated areas and contracting municipalities of the county from nuisance or dangerous dogs and cats. It requires the owner or keeper of animals to properly control them. It also requires dogs and cats to be vaccinated against the rabies virus and that the vaccination be registered with the Division of Humane Services.The ordinance also prohibits the keeping or owning of certain species of dangerous exotic animals and reptiles.

The ordinance also protects animals from inhumane treatment by requiring adequate shelter, food and water. It has provisions for penalties for injuring, abandoning, or overworking an animal, and for failure to provide adequate control.

The Divison of Humane Services operates the Pet Adoption Center. This new facility which was opened on November 8, 1999, is a state of the art kennel with adequate space for support and administration. It features a very active adoption program. A volunteer program provides assistance to the regular staff, companionship and care to the adoptable animal population, and a truly rewarding experience to those volunteers who serve. Come visit us! Click here for a map.

Volunteer Opportunities!

To learn more about becoming a volunteer, click here.