HomeMy WebLinkAboutAnimal Control Manual
Augusta Richmond GA
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RICHMOND COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL
MANUAL
Henry C. Brooks, Director
Phone 790-6836
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FOREWORD
The animal control officer today needs many different skills in order to properly do their job. Gone are the days of
simply being the "dog catcher."
Officers need to be well-versed in the following areas:
Responsible pet ownership in order to help owners who are well-intentioned, but lack knowledge.
Interpersonal communication skills to help the officer deal with the irate owner or complaint. Many times
it is not what you say, but how you say it and how well you listen.
Humane capture techniques -- both manual and remote.
First aid skills in order to properly treat injured animals until they can be taken to a veterinarian.
Breed identification, shelter sanitation, humane euthanasia and the laws and ordinances designed to
protect not only people from animals, but animals from people.
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Cruelty
Investigator
Dispatcher
Animal Control
Officer
RICHMOND COUNTY
ANIMAL CONTROL
Director
Administrative Secretary
Assistant Director
Health
Technician
Kennel
Supervisor
Enforcement
Officer
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1.1.0
Truck Cleaning ....... .................. ....... .............. ......... ............................. ................ ............. ..... ............ .......... ...... 1.1.0
1.10
Field Training ....... ............. ..... .............. ........... ......... ........................... ........ ........... .......... ............ ................. .... 1.10.0
Field Training Officer ............. ............................... .................. ............... .......... ................. ................. ............... 1.10.2
Training Length of..... ................................ .................. ........................... ......... ....... .................. ....... ..... ......... .... 1.10.3
1.11
Vehicular Response To Calls .... ........................ ........... ................... ...... ........ ....... ................ ............... ............... 1.11.2
Animal Impound.... ........... ........... ............ ............................... ........................ ............................. ...... ..... ........... 1.11.3
Animals - Live Capture............. ......... .......... ................. ........................ ........... ...... ...... ........ .............................. 1.11.3
Officer Response to Calls..... .............. ...... .......... ..................... ................ ........ ...................... ......... .................... 1.11.3
Live Capture.. .................. ......... .................... ....................... ................................... .......... .............. ................... 1.11.3
Citation - Court... ............ ........... .......... ........... ......... .............. ................. ........... ....... ....................... .................. 1.11.3
Citations - Warning.. ........... ....... .................... ...... ......................... .................... ............. ........................ ...... ...... 1.11.3
Bite Cases ......................... .......... ............. ........ ....... ................ ............. .... .......... ............. ........... .... ..... ............... 1.11.4
~fnmunicati ons S i I!nals ........................................ ........... '," .::............... ......... ..___________.... ..l.J_L5
Truck Cleaning ................................................ ............. ............. ...................... ................... ............................... 1.1.0
1.10
Field Training... .............. .......... ...... .............. ............... ......................... ......... .......... ............. ........ ....... .............. 1.10.0
Field Training Officer ... ......... ...... ......... .................. .............. ............... ...... ........................ ..... ......... ...... ............ 1.10.2
Training Length of... .... .............. ...................... ................ ................ .............. ........... ............ ...... ......... .............. 1.10.3
1.11
.
Vehicular Response To Calls ............... .................. ................. .......................................................... ..... ............ 1.11.2
Animal Impound.... .................... ......... ................ ................ .................... .......... ........ ...... ................................... 1.11.3
Animals - Live Capture..... ......................... ..................... ............ .......... ........... ....... .......... ....... ........... ............... 1.11.3
Officer Response to Calls........... ..... ........................ ................. .......................................................................... 1.11.3
Live Capture...................................................... ........... .................................... .................. ............................... 1.11.3
Citation - Court............................................................ ................................................................................. ..... 1.11.3
Citations - Waming..................... ............ ............... ......... ...................... ...... ......... ............................... ............... 1.11.3
Bite Cases ...................... ..................... ................. ..... ....... ..... ................ ........ ...................... ............. ....... ........... 1.11.4
Communications Signals ............................. .................... ................................. ................................... .............. 1.11.5
Cruelty Cases ......... ..................... .......................... ...... ........... ............... ....... ........... ........................................... 1.11.5
Field Investigation Report........................... ............ ........ ................................................................................... 1.11.6
Bite Case Report Form ... .............. ............. ........ .... ....... ......................... ......... ..... ........... ...... ............................. 1.11.7
Rabies Vaccination Fees ............. .......... ............................... .............................. ................................................ 1.11.8
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1.12
Tranquillizing Methods...................................................................................................................................... 1.12.0
1.13
Vehicle Checkout.............................. ................ ................ ........................ ........ ................................................. 1.13.0
1.14
Daily Report of Activities ................................................... ............................................................................... 1.14.0
Patrol Summary.......................... ..................................... ..................................... ............................................. 1.14.0
1.15
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1.30
Kennel Operation.......... ...... ........ .................................. ............. .............................. .......... ................... ...... ....... 1.3 O. 0
Animals - Care and Housing ....... ........... ......... .......... .... ......... .................... ..... ...... ........ ..... ..... ............ ............... 1.30.3
Bite Case Pens ... ...... ................... ............. .... ..... ......... ...................................... ....... ............. ...... .............. .... ...... 1.30.3
Animal - Feeding........ ..... ................ ............ ...... ........ .... ........ ............... ............. ............. ..... ............ .... ....... ....... 1.30.4
Animals - Providing Water .................. ....................... .............. ..................... ........ .............. ................... ..... ...... 1.30.4
Kennel - Disinfection .... ..... ............... ......... ........ .......... ...... ...... ................ ...... ..... .................. ........ ..... ...... .......... 1.3 O. 5
Animals - Medical Treatment..... ......... ............................... ....................... .......... ....... ........... ............. ........... ..... 1.30.6
1.33
Euthanasia Procedures ................................................................................................................................... .... 1.33.0
Hypodermic Needles.... ....... ............. ................. ......... ....... ............. ......................... ............ ..... .......................... 1.33.0
Injections - Sodium P entobarl>ital ....... ........... .............. ............. ............ ........ .......... ............. ............... ............... 1.33.2
Injection Procedures for Cats ........ ............. .................. ............. ..................... .... ............... ................ ...... ........... 1.33.3
Injection Procedures for Dogs.......................... ............ ............. ............ ............. ........ ......... ............. ....... ..... ...... 1.33.3
1.60
Logbook Procedures ......................................... ............................ .............. ........................... ............................ 1.60.0
1.61
On-Call Assignments... ............... .......... ...... ..... .......... ............................ ............................... ........ ....... ....... ....... 1.61.2
Personnel Assignments .... ........ ......... ...... ...... ..... ....... ............ ....... ...... ...... ............ ........... ....... .................. .... ...... 1.61.2
1.62
Checks - Criteria For Accepting..... ............ ...... ........................................ ....... ..... .................. ................. ........... 1.62.2
Check Procedures ............................ .................. .................. ....................... .......... ................... ....... ......... .......... 1.62.0
1.65
Dispatch Procedures.................................................................... ............. .......................................................... 1.65.0
Telephone Calls for Service .............................. ........................... ..... ...... ........................................................... 1.65.3
1.66
Reports - Monthly............ ............. ............................ ...... ....... .................. .................... ...................................... 1.66.0
1.67
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Trap Procedures...................... ........ ............................... .......................... .......... ...... ................... ..... ..... ............. 1.6 ~. 0
Animal Traps.... ............... ...................... ............. .......... ........ ........... .............. .......... ............. ...... ....................... 1.67,.0
1.68
Animal Control Incident Report....... .............................. .................................................................................... 1.68.0
1.69
Animal Release Forms From Shelter .................. ................................................................................................ 1.69.0
Animal Release Form To Shelter ....................................................................................................................... 1.69.1
Animal Contro I Adoption Agreement ............................. ....... ............................. ............................................... 1.69.2
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I 1.1.2 Guidelines
All compartment used to house animals being transported will be cleaned by the field operations
I officer operating the unit. Compartments will be cleaned in the following manner:
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1.1.0 Truck Cleaninl!
1.1.1 Purpose
To establish procedures in order to maintain sanitary conditions in truck compartments used to
house animals being impounded.
Each time an animal is removed from a compartment the officer will spray the used compart-
ment with aerosol disinfectant that is part of the normal supplies carried on the truck. The floors, waIls, top,
security door, compartment door, and floor grate, if applicable will be sprayed and allowed to stand ten (10)
minutes before wiping dry.
Should urine or feces matter be present in the compartment the area should be washed out with a
hose prior to disinfection.
At the end of each shift, morning and evening, officers assigned to field operations shall use
disinfectant solutions at the shelter to thoroughly clean the truck compartments.
The Director or his designated person will be responsible for checking the cleanliness of each
vehicle prior to the officer beginning his tour of duty.
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1.10.0 Training
1.10.1 Purpose
To acclimate new employees in the proper methods of performing specific and general job tasks
and responsibilities.
1.10.2 Responsibilities
1. Training Officer
Assistant Director and Kennel Master will be assigned as training officers.
The Assistant Director is responsible for all aspects of the new employee's training based
on guidelines received from the Director. This includes explaining "why" tasks are done, how to do them, and
the expected and result. Training officers should keep in mind that the new employee does not have prior
knowledge of his animal control duties.
The training officer should always:
a. Be patient
b. Explain each step of the job.
c. Criticize constructively when needed
d. Praise when needed
e. Be willing to turn over more control as the new employee's skill and ability level
mcreases.
2. Recruit
The new employee is responsible for learning the "how" and "why" of the job and to ask
questions, ifhe is not clear, about a task the recruit is expected to accomplish.
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The new employee is expected to follow the training officer's instructions, unless to do so
would violate existing County Ordinances or State Law.
While handling a call, the new employee should refrain from questioning the officer in
charge while they are handling a call or dealing with the public. Any clarification that is needed shall be done
~fter leaving the scene of a call.
3. Training Officer
The training officer shall maintain close contact with the recruits and the field training
officer during all phases of training.
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1.10.3 Length and Schedule of Training
The training period for a new employee for field operations shall last a minimum of four (4) weeks.
Additional time may be required for those new employees who do not progress as they should. Training shall
consist of one (1) week of kennel operations and three (3) weeks of field training.
Kennel training can be accomplished during the first or fourth week of training at the discretion of the
Director. Euthanasia training will be conducted during the kennel training period if arrangements with veteri-
narian can be made.
During the field operations part of the training, the following regimes will be generally followed:
First Week - The recruit will "observe only" for the first three (3) days. The last two (2) days the recruit
will read the map when calls are dispatched and locate routes to be taken to calls. He will also keep the log
sheet.
Second Week - During the first three (3) days the recruit will drive the vehicle, keep the log sheet, and
handle some calls as directed by the training officer. The training officer will handle the radio. During the last
two (2) days the recruit will take more responsibility for handling calls and begin handling radio traffic.
Third Week - The recruit will take control of all functions. The training officer will intercede only if the
call is out of the ordinary, or if the recruit is about to take a course of action that will endanger the officers,fcitizens, or bring discredit to the Richmond County Animal Control Shelter.
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1.11.0 Field Operations
1.11.1 Purpose
To ensure compliance with state laws and local ordinances concerning animals. Compliance may be
obtained by education or citation.
Many times situations encountered by field operations personnel have no present solution. The officer
must look at the complaint in its totality before making a decision to issue a citation, or a warning to an owner,
or impoundment, or releasing an animal to the owner depending upon statutory provisions of applicable law or
ordinance.
Officers shall be knowledgeable about content of ordinances and laws pertaining to animal control, so
that they will be able to speak with complainants and animal owners in a professional manner relaying to them
concise and accurate information.
1.11.2 VehicIe Response to Calls for Assistance
All officers for the Animal Control Department shall respond to all calls for assistance (Signal 3) as
outlined in the standard operating procedure section.
1.11.3 Officer Response to Calls for Assistance
1. Meeting with Complainant
It shall be the duty of all assigned field personnel to respond to citizens' complaints in timely fashion.
Upon receiving a complaint call, the field officer shall do the following.
a. Respond to the complainant's residence, unless otherwise directed by the dispatcher.
b. Park the vehicle in the complainant's driveway or in the public street.
c. Go to the front door of the complainant's residence and ring doorbell or knock on door.
d. Speak to the complainant in a polite and courteous manner. Ascertain from the complain-
ant exactly what kind of problem is occurring. Let the complainant know what the field response shall be.
e. If the complainant is not at home, the field officer will leave a yellow response denoting
what action was taken. The complainant's address, date, time and the field officer's last name printed on the
Leave-A-Note. The note should be left in a prominent location that will be visible and accessible for the com-
plainant to find.
2. Meeting with the Animal Owner
a. Officers responding to calls of animal violations will attempt to locate the owner of the
offending animal. The officer is not to reveal the complainant's identity to the owner.
b. Field personnel shall make every effort to make personal contact with the owner and
discuss the problem with the owner.
c. If personal contact is made with the owner, the field officer shall be polite and responsive
to the Owner's questions. The field officer shall outline the problem, as it is known to the officer, and make
suggestions as how to solve the problem. The field officer will then advise the owner of the county ordinance
that pertains to the problem.
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d. If the owner is not at home at the time the officer responds to the complaint, the officer
shall leave a yellow Leave-a-Note at the owner's residence outlining the problem as it is known. The field
officer will note which ordinance the animal is in violation of and the maximum fines/penalties for violation of
that ordinance. The field officer shall then print the owner's address, date, time, the field officer's last name on
the response Leave-a-Note. The response shall be left at the owner's residence in a prominent and accessible
place for the owner to locate.
e. If the officer feels it necessary to issue a warning citation to the animal owner, it shall be
done in the same fashion as a court citation. The owner's name, address, and telephone number will be obtained
by the officer as well as the driver's license number and date of birth. The warning citation shall be handed to
the person whose name appears on the citation. It shall not be left attached to the residence or left in the mail-
box.
f. If the officer deems it necessary to issue a court citation to the animal owner, the officer
shall first explain to the owner why the citation is being issued. The officer shall request to see a current driver's
license or some sort of picture ID. The owner's name, address, and phone number will be obtained by the
officer. The officer will write out the section of the ordinance violation in the denoted space. The officer's last
name will be printed on the bottom of the citation. The officer will advise the owner of the court date verbally
and advise the owner of the penalty for failure to appear in court. The officer shall answer all questions regard-
ing the citation. If the owner refuses to produce identity, the officer shall leave the owner's property and call or
radio for police assistance in receiving the information.
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3. Animal Impound
a. Animals charged as vicious may be impounded.
b. Officers will handle impound of animals at a police officer's request where a violator has
been arrested and impound is necessary for the well-being of the animal.
c. Animals found to be at large as defined in County ordinance. #84-3 Sec. 4-24
Officers will notify the owner in person, or by yellow Leave-a-Notes that their animal
has been impounded for reasons a, b, and d.
d. When the animal is impounded for reason b, the officer must obtain the name and address
of the violator form the arresting officer and the reason for the arrest. If the violator is still at the scene, the
officer shall advise where the animal will be.
4. Live Capture
It shall be the duty of al field personnel to use as little physical force, as possible, in the capture
and impoundment of animals. Field personnel should always attempt to capture animals in the most humane
method available. Restraint poles should be used only when the field officer feels that handling the animal
otherwise will cause themselves bodily harm or injury. Restraint poles should under no circumstances be used
as a club or bat, unless the animal is attacking with the intent of bodily harm.
It shall be the duty of the field personnel to be versed and knowledgeable in animal behavior so
that they may use capture techniques that best suit the situation they are in.
1.11.4 Bite Cases
priority.
It shall be the duty of all field personnel to respond directly to any reported bite case as a top
The officer shall go directly to the victim's location and inspect the woundlbite. A legal bite shall mean
the following:
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A scratch, bruise, puncture, laceration, or any breakage of the skin caused by a wild or domestic animal.
SInce rabies is a virus it can be transmitted by any method listed above. A scratch from a cat is considered a
legal bite if the front claws caused the wound.
Bite cases shall be categorized as follows:
1. Known owner - The officer will attempt to make contact with the owner/custodian to ascertain if
the animal is current on rabies vaccination, obtain any knowledge the owner/custodian may have concerning the
circumstances surrounding the incident, and advise the owner/custodian that county ordinance requires the
animal to be quarantined for ten (10) days from the date of the bite (not counting the day of the bite).
The officer shall give the owner/custodian the option of:
a. Placing the animal with a state approved kennel or a licensed veterinarian.
b. Surrendering the animal to be euthanized.
c. Home quarantine if all conditions specified in 1.15.0 can be met.
A Richmond County Animal Control Incident Report will be completed by the officer. An
"Authorization to Perform Euthanasia" form will be completed and signed by the owner/custodian if option b. is
chosen.
The owner/custodian should place the animal with the state approved kennel on the day of the
bite when option a. is chosen; however, if this cannot be done because the bite occurred, or the owner was
contacted, after normal business hours of the kennel the officer shall instruct the owner/custodian to have the
animal at the kennel by 12 noon on the next business day. When option b. is chosen, the officer will secure the
animal for transport to the shelter prior to leaving the owner's residence. Should the owner/custodian refuse the
quarantine the animal, assistance shall be requested from the Richmond County Sheriff Department or Augusta
Police Department.
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2. Stray or unknown owner - The officer shall attempt to locate or capture the animal; however, if
the animal is not located or is unapproachable, the officer shall check on the availability of a trap and if a trap is
available, return to the shelter, obtain the trap, and place the trap at the scene. The officer shall attempt to
ascertain ownership of the animal.
3. Wildlife - Any animal that does not have a rabies vaccine approved by the State of Georgia shall
be secured and euthanized so the brain tissue may be examined for evidence of rabies.
1.11.5 Cruelty Case Investigation
Cruelty cases require prosecution in Magistrate Court.
1.11.6 Field Investigation Report i
It shall be the duty of all field personnel to complete all field investigation reports and turn them over to
the Cruelty Investigator.
This shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
1. A brief narrative of the discussion that occurred between the officer and complainant.
2. All owner information, as it is known to the officer or, that the officer can ascertain.
3. All animal information in regards to the species, breed, sex, color, hair length, and size.
4. All tag information that is located on the dog.
5. Any discussion with the owner in a brief narrative.
6. The final animal disposition if the animal is impounded.
7. The date and time the call is responded to.
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8. The officer's last name and unit number.
9. At no time shall an officer knowingly falsify any report.
1.11.7 Bite Case Form
1.11.8 Rabie Vaccination Fee
If quarantined animal has not been vaccinated when brought to the shelter, the owner will pay for Rabie
Shot at Shelter and will receive a receipt and carry animal to the veterinarian within five (5) days of the date the
animal is picked up. The fee is $15.00
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1.12.0 Tranquilizing Methods
1.12.1 Purpose
Stray animals that are a public nuisance, or present a threat to human safety, may be captured by remote
chemical injection if the animal has proven to be unapproachable by humans and live traps have proved useless.
This directive provides guidance in the use of chemical methods that may be utilized to capture an animal alive
and unharmed.
1.12.2 Capturing the Animal
Prior to attempting to capture the animal, officer should interview the complainant and any witnesses in
order to verify the actions of the animal and to obtain a positive identification of the animal in question.
Officers should survey the territory of the animal to observe resting areas, escape routes, and possible
approach routes.
Initial attempts to capture the animal should be byt leash, control sitck. or traps.
Approach the animal froma direction that will minimize detection by the animal. A capture should not
be attempted unless there are at least two (2) officers assisting as spotters/trackers.
Animals should be in a sleeping or resting position prior to any attempt to tranquilize the animal.
1.12.3 Injection Sites
The injection site should be carefully chosen. Generally speaking, only three (3) regions of the animal's
anatomy can be considered as suitable injection sites. The sites are listed below, beginning with the most desir-
able:
1. Upper region of the hind leg or hindquarter. This is the biggest and most common area of use for
injections. Take care to avoid the stifle, knee, and point of the hip.
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;; 2. Shoulder regions - Not as big as the hindquarters of animal, but it does provide a fairly flat and
well muscled area normally perpendicular to the direction of fire and surrounded by less sensitive regions of the
animal body. A void the scapula and area above, as tranquilizer darts may damage bone structure or embed in
cartilage.
3. Neck region - This area can be considered for larger animals, if the tranquilizer dart is well;
placed. Avoid the jugular vein, the upper ligamentous, end of the neck, and the area close to the head of the
animal. I
4. Avoid all other anatomical regions because of the possibility of traumatic damage. The reference
chart attached depicts the proper areas to inject the tranquilizer drug.
1.12.4 After Capture
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RICHMOND COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL
BITE CASE REPORT
1.11.7
REPORT TO ANIMAL CONTROL BY
ADDRESS
A.C. INVESTIGATOR
PERSON BITIEN
ADDRESS
PARENT'S NAME (IF MINOR)
DESCRIPTION OF WOUND
TREATMENT REQUIRED
WHY WAS PERSON BITIEN
NAME bF OWNER OF ANIMAL IF KNOWN
ADDRESS OF OWNER
DOES OWNER WANT ANIMAL BACK? YES NO
YES, I WANT MY ANIMAL BACK AND I WILL PICK IT UP ON THE 11 TH DAY OF QUARANTINE.
OWNER'S SIGNATURE DATE
PHONE #
DATE
PHONE #
DATEINV.
AGE SEX
DATE OF BITE
PHONE
NO, I DO NOT WANT MY ANIMAL BACK. I HAVE RELEASED IT TO THE RICHMOND COUNrY ANIMAL CONTROL
SHELTER FOR EUTHANIZATION OR ADOPTION AS DEFINED #1.11.4.
OWNER'S SIGNATURE
DESCRIPTION OF ANIMAL COLOR
WAS ANIMAL CAUGlIT? YES
CONDITION OF ANIMAL: ALIVE DEAD
RABIES TAG # EXP. DATE
WAS ANIMAL CONFINED AT ANIMAL CONTROL? YES
WHO APPROVED CONFINEMENT OF ANIMAL AT OWNER'S HOME?
PEN # SHELTER TAG #
DATE MOVED BY WHOM
CONDITION OF ANIMAL
REPORTED TO HEALTH DEPT:
RELEASED BY THE HEALTH DEPT:
OTHER COMMENTS ON BACK:
AGE
OTHER
HEALTHY
VET
DATE
SEX
WGT
NO
OTHERWISE
NO
RELEASE DATE
NEW PEN #
FINAL DISPOSmON
YES _ NO DATE
DATE
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I 2. Large animals such as horses, cows, etc., should have a veterinarian on the scene if at all pos-
sible. In any event, a veterinarian should be consulted prior to injections being administered.
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The following procedures should be followed:
1.
Muzzle all dogs.
3.
Expended darts will be accounted for prior to leaving the scene.
4.
tranquilizer.
Upon arrival at the shelter, the animals will be placed in individual pens until recovery from the
5.
Animal control officers will prepare a report listing the following:
a.
b.
Complainant
Witnesses - this is to include backup officers
Number of darts used
Type of drug and amount used
c.
d.
SHADED AREAS INDICATE ACCEPTABLE INJECTION SITE FOR TRANQUILIZATION AGENTS
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The following proced~es should be followed:
I. Muzzle all dogs.
2. Large animals such as horses, cows, etc., should have a veterinarian on the scene if at all pos-
sible. In any event, a veterinarian should be consulted prior to injections being administered.
3. Expended darts will be accounted for prior to leaving the scene.
4. Upon arrival at the shelter, the animals will be placed in individual pens until recovery from the
tranquilizer.
5. Animal control officers will prepare a report listing the following:
a. Complainant
b. Witnesses - this is to include backup officers
c. Number of darts used
d. Type of drug and amount used
SHADED AREAS INDICATE ACCEPTABLE INJECTION SITE FOR TRANQUILIZATION AGENTS
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1.13. 0 Vehicle Checkout
Officers will follow the below listed guidelines on a daily basis prior to beginning their tour of duty:
1. Check the engine oil level. The engine must be stopped and the vehicle on level ground. The dip
stick will indicate the engine oil level. This level should be between the full and low marks on the stick. If
necessary, oil should be added when the level drops below the low mark. Care should be taken not to overfill
the engine with oil.
2. The vehicle should be checked visually. The visual inspection should include tires for damage
and proper inflation, fluid leaks, all lights functioning properly, all warning devices such as the beacon light and
horn functioning properly, and the body for damage.
3. Tool and equipment on vehicles should also be checked to ensure that they operated properly and
are stored properly.
On a weekly basis the Assistant Director will be responsible for checking each vehicle to ensure that
daily and weekly inspections are being made. On a weekly basis officers will, in addition to the above listed
items, also check the following items:
1. Coolant level - The coolant level can be checked by viewing the recovery reservoir. The reser-
voir is marked indicating full and low levels. The radiator cap should never be removed from hot radiator as the
fluid is hot and under pressure and can cause serious injury.
2. Automatic Transmission Fluid - The transmission fluid should be checked with the vehicle on
level ground, engine hot and running and the transmission in park.
The dip stick should be pulled out, wiped off, and inserted all the way back into the tube. Pull
the dip stick out and recheck the fluid level. The level should be between the full and low marks.
3. Power Steering Fluid - The fluid level should be checked when the engine is hot and the vehicle
on level ground. The engine should be turned off prior to checking the level. The cap to the power steering unit
. has a dip stick that will indicate the proper range.
4. Tire inflation - All tires should be checked for proper inflation. The owner's manual should be
checked for the proper inflation level of tires.
5. Door Hardware - All door hardware and latching mechanisms should open and operate freely.
Lubricate #110, WD 40 silicone spray, or a similar lubricant should be used.
6. If there are any questions are problems regarding vehicle fluid levels, etc., the vehicle should be
taken to the DPS Maintenance Shop.
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1.15.0 Bite Quarantine Procedures
1.15.1 Purpose
To provide information and guidelines regarding the quarantine of animals in bite cases.
1.15.2 Animals to be Quarantined
The purpose of a quarantine is to provide an observation period to determine if an animal has the
rabies virus. The Georgia Departtnent of Human Resources Division of Public Health, Office of Epidemiology
in the Rabies Control Manual states that "Dogs and cats are the only animals that should be held for observation
following a bite.
Observation is of value because the length of time that viruses may be excreted in the saliva prior
to onset of signs can be predicted. It is known that dogs and cats may excrete rabies viruses up to five (5) days
prior to onset of signs. The ten (10) day observation period for dogs and cats is thus twice the predicted time
allowing a 100% margin of safety. If a dog or cat shows no clinical signs of rabies after ten (10) days of obser-
vation. One can be assured that the animal was not shedding rabies viruses at the time of the bite. Any dog or
cat that bites a person in Georgia must be captured and confined for observation for ten (10) days in a manner
approved by the local health department. When the biting animal is an unvaccinated stray dog or cat and there is
reason to believe that the animal was rabid, it may be sacrificed immediately and the head submitted for rabies
diagnosis. "
The Rabies Control Manual goes on to indicate that wild carnivores; including fox, ferrets,
skunks, raccoon, and bobcats "should not be held for observation following a bite. Animals in this group should
be captured and sacrificed immediately." The procedure for examination in the Rabies Control Manual should
be followed. Bats are also included in this group, however, different examination procedures exist and are
outlined in the Rabies Control Manual. Rodents and rabbits, as well as opossums, are unlikely to be reservoirs
or rectors of rabies. Since 1977, Georgia has not even accepted rodents or rabbits for laboratory examination
"unless the animal attacks a person unprovokedly," according to the Rabies Control Manual.
1.15.3 Quarantined Options
Home quarantine, licensed veterinarian, and state approved kennels are three (3) options avail-
able for animals that have been involved in bite cases and the owner is known.
Procedures for the three (3) types of quarantine are as follows:
I. Home quarantine - This method allows a pet owner to keep a pet quarantined for ten (10)
days at home after a bite, but may only be used if all of the below listed criteria are met. .
a.
b.
to other animals or humans.
c. The animal must be kept away from contact with other animals and humans.
d. The animal must remain quarantined, it may not be let out, and there must not be
any other violations of the Animal Control Ordinance.
e. This method may be used in animal-to-animal bite cases.
2. Licensed veterinarian - Animals with known owners may elect to quarantine their pets
with a licensed veterinarian for the duration of the quarantine.
3. State approved kennel - Animals with known owners may also quarantine their animals at
state approved kennels if a licensed veterinarian cannot be located, or ifhome quarantine is not approved.
Animal must have current vaccinations and tag.
A proper enclosure and housing must exist. The enclosure must prevent exposure
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SHADED AREAS INDICATE ACCEPTABLE INJECTION SITE FOR TRANQUILIZATION AGENTS
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1.16.0 Communication Signals
10-1
10-2
10-3
10-4
10-5
10-6
10-7
10-8
10-9
1 0-1 0
10-11
1 0-12
1 0-13
10-14
1 0-15
1 0-16
I 0-1 7
10-18
10-19
10-20
10-22
10- 23
10-24
10-25
10-26
10-27
10-28
10-29
10-30
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The following signals and codes are most commonly utilized by the Animal Control Department.
Signals
Receive poorly
Recei ve well
Check to see if you have any animals to be put down
OKlUnderstood
Check back on call
Busy/Not available
Arrived on Scene
In-service
Repeat
Unit calling has no more calls
Bite case for pickup
Injured or sick animal for pickup
Call office at once
Call your home at once
Return to shelter
Dog in yard for pickup
Check for strays running loose
Dead animal for pickup
Dog running loose, give warning
Location
No vaccination, give citation
Patrol School
Cruelty
Dog running loose, give citation
No vaccination, give warning
Request supervisor
Call police unit
ETA
"D" or "C", dog or cat in trap for pick up
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Codes
Code 1 LN Left Note
Code 2 L W Left Warning
Code 3 LC Left Citation
Code 4 TW Talked with
Code 5 B 1 Birds B2 Bats
Code 6 CI Cats C2 Cows
Code 7 D Dog
Code 8 G Goats
Code 9 H Horse
Code 10 SI Snake
Code 11 PI Pony
Code 12 R Rabbit
Code 13 24 Cruelty
Code 14 Traps
Code 15 Break or Restroom
Lode 16 Send shot gun to location
Code 17 Request back/up specify Richmond County Sheriff Department of Augusta Police Department
Code 18 Incident report made
Code 19 Locate and picked up empty trap
Code 20 Complainant not home/checked arealleft Leave-a-Note
Code 21 Wildlife referred to Natural Resources Enforcement
Code 22 Met with complainant/checked area/no contact with animal
S2 Skunk
P2 Pig
R2 Raccoon
S3
P3
Squirrel
Possum
1.30.0 Kennel Operations
1.30.1 Purpose
To established guidelines for the maintenance of an orderly and humane control over animals in the
custody of the Richmond County Animal Control
1.30.2 General Guidelines
The following general guidelines will apply to the operation of the kennel:
1. The kennel operation will conform to state law and county ordinance.
2. The Kennel Master is responsible for the kennel and assignment of personnel within the
kennel.
3. Kennel staff will treat all animals in a humane manner. Abusive treatment will not be
tolerated.
4. Control sticks will not be used unless necessary to prevent harm to the handler. Animals will
_ be moved by leash or carried.
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5. Pens will not be left unlocked unless work is being done in that pen.
6. Animals will not be removed from pens to be reviewed or held by citizens.
been paid.
7. No animal will be released until a completed receipt is obtained indicating the proper fees have
8. Prior to placing an animal into the kennel the following steps will be taken:
a. An Release Form will be completed.
b. A logbook entry will be made.
c. An ill collar will be attached to the animal.
d. The animal will be dipped for flea and tick control.
1.30.3 Care of Animals/Housing
In order to properly care for animal housed at the shelter following guidelines will be followed:
1.
Dogs
a.
Bite Case Pens
There are three (3) single pens used for dogs that are quarantined for biting. If space
is available, these pens may be used to house a dog which has been vicious towards other dogs or humans. The officer
in charge or Director will approve the use of these pens for vicious dogs.
2. Cats
All felines will be housed in stainless steel cages in the cat room.
.
.
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3.
Livestock
The fenced in yard area will be used to house any livestock.
.
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1.30.4 Care of Animal/Feeding and Watering
1. Dogs
a. Pens
Feed bowls will be filled each day. Feed will be placed in the pen after the cleaning of the
pen. The condition of the feed shall be checked each morning to ensure it is not moldy or contaminated.
If the feed is found to be moldy or contaminated, it will be removed and discarded.
There will be two (2) water buckets per pen. One (1) will be kept on each side. The water will
be checked periodically during the day and filled as needed. All water pails will be filled at 3:30 p.m.
food.
Care should be taken to ensure that adult dogs receive dog food and puppies receive puppy
2. Cats
Cats will be fed daily. Food will be placed in the bowls and left in the cage.
The water bowl will be checked periodically and resupplied as needed.
3. Livestock
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The grass in the pasture will be the diet of the livestock. If there is insufficient grass, hay and
sweet feed will be given on an as needed basis to supplement the diet.
There are two (2) water receptacles in the pasture area. They will be checked at least twice
per day and filled as needed.
1.30.5 Care of AnimalslDisinfection of Kennel
Only cleaners and disinfectants approved by the Director will be used to clean the kennel. These
products will be used according to the instructions on the product unless specifically changed by the Director. All
pens will be disinfected daily.
1. Dog Pens
a. Pens - prior to cleaning the pens, the dogs will be secured in the section of the
pen not being cleaned.
basis.
b. The water pails in the dog pens will be washed with soap and water on a dail y
c. Food bowls will be disinfected daily and stacked to dry for use the next day.
d. All pens will be rinsed as needed during the day to remove urine and fecal
matter. A final rinse will be made between 3:30 and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and prior to leaving on
Saturday and Sunday.
e. All pens will be cleaned thoroughly on a regular basis. The animals will be
moved to the opposite area being cleaned. The floors and walls will be sprayed with cleaner and disinfectant. This
will then be thoroughly rinsed with water.
2. Cat Pens
a. Cats will be moved to an empty cage during cleaning.
.
b. The inside of each cage will be disinfected on a daily basis. The litter pan in
each pen will also be cleaned by dumping out the old litter, disinfecting the pan, and refilling it on a daily basis.
c. Food and water bowls will also be disinfected on a daily basis. After
disinfecting they will be washed with soap and water and dried. There are two (2) food and water bowls allotted for
each cage. One cleaned set of bowls from the previously cleaned cage should be used in the next cage to allow time
for the set just cleaned to dry cage.
1.30.6 Care of Animal/Medical Treatment
veterinarian.
The Health Technician is responsible for the administration of any medication prescribed by the
The Health Technician is responsible for the maintenance of medical records for each animal treated.
Any animal held by court order will be taken to the veterinarian for examination. Any vaccinations
necessary will be administered. Medical records will be made and maintained on these animals. The Kennel Master
will be responsible for transporting animals to the veterinarian and the Health Technician will be maintaining the
medial records. The Health Technician will check animals being held under court order on a daily basis for any signs
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of illness.
1.33.0 Euthanasia Room and Procedures
1.33.1 Euthanasia Room
The following general guidelines will apply to the Euthanasia Room:
1. Prior to any animal being euthanized, a check should be made to ensure that the animal has been held
five (5) days. When a holiday falls within the five (5) day holding period, the animal will be held additional days
according to the number of holidays observed during this period.
2. Cages C 2 and 3 will be used to hold cats on a short term basis only for euthanasia. Pens 9,22, and
23 will be used for dogs on a short term basis for euthanasia. Animals that are diseased will be put to sleep.
3. Pens and cages in the Euthanasia area will be cleaned and disinfected after each use. The room will
be disinfected at the end of each day.
1.33.2 Euthanasia Procedures
In order to destroy all unwanted, unclaimed, diseased, or injured animals in a humane manner the
following procedures will be used:
1. Only the OIC or employees who have successfully completed training in euthanasia procedures will
euthanize animals.
2. All officers who will perform the euthanasia procedures will be certified by a licensed veterinarian
in the proper euthanasia techniques.
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3. To prepare to perform the euthanasia procedures, a hypodermic syringe will be selected according
to the size of the animal. Syringes are in sizes 2.5 to 12cc's. Needle sizes are twenty (20) gauge to twenty-four (24)
gauge - 1" to 1.5" long.
4. After the proper hypodermic syringe has been selected, a Sodium Pentobarbital solution will be
prepared based on the weight of the animal. The solution will be prepared at 1 cc solution per ten (10) pounds of body
weight. The Sodium Pentobarbital per Iml.
5. A muzzle, tourniquet, or control pole may be used when needed.
1.33.3 Methods of Euthanasia
There are three (3) methods of euthanasia:
1. Intravenous injection - This method will normally be used on dogs and cats. To use this
method the following procedures will be followed:
a. Place the dog on a table or similar flat surface. One (1) person will stand next to the
dog and hold it by placing the right arm under and around the animal's neck. This should be done in a firm, but not
tight manner. If it is too tight, it will cause undue stress for the animal. The animal's head should be turned away
form the person who injects it.
b. Using the left arm reach over the dog's back and grasp the dog's left front legjust above
the knee area. The thumb should be firmly on the top portion and the rest of the hand on the bottom portion of the
leg. The hand should then be rotated aooroximatelv 45 to 90 degrees to the left. This will restrict the flow of blood
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RICHMOND COUNTY, GEORGIA
POLICY AND PROCEDURE MANUAL
Richmond County Animal Control
Animal Release Form from Shelter
Number
1.69.0
Page I
of 3
1.69.0 ANIMAL RELEASE FORM FROM SHELTER
The following guidelines will apply to the release of animals from the shelter:
1. Only office staff, the officer in charge, or the Director are authorized to complete an "Animal Release" form
and collect fees.
2. The release form must be completed, and any fees collected, prior to an animal being released.
3. Owner/caretaker information - The animal owner/caretaker must present a driver's license or other type of
photo type identification. Care should be taken to ensure that the address and other information is current. The driver's
license number, or other identifying number and date of birth, will be listed above the owner's name.
4. Animal Information
a. Date in - The date the animal was brought in.
b. ID# - Shelter Tag number. This should be listed on the daily pickup sheet.
c. Species - List dog, cat, horse, etc.
d. Breed - List the appropriate breed.
e. Color - List the color.
f. Sex - Male or female/
g. Name - Animal's name.
5. Fees - The fees section will be completed as follows:
a. Board - This is charged on a per day basis and is set by the Commissioners. The fees for board start
the day after the impound date and are added on a daily basis including the release day. The fee will include weekends
and holidays.
b. License fee - This space is not used.
c. Rabies, euthanasia, carcass disposal - This is not used at this time.
d. Other - This space is used to list any veterinarian expense billed to Animal Control for medical
attention. A copy of the veterinarian bill will be to the owner.
6. The owner will sign the form and pay any fees. If a fee is collected, a receipt will be given and the receipt
number recorded on the check.
7 . Voided receipts must be turned in and signed by the person voiding the receipt.
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1.69.1 Richmond County Animal Control Release Form to the Shelter
Date
Shelter Tag #
Pen #
I am releasing this animal to the Richmond County Animal Control Shelter. I do not want this animal back.
Animal's Name
Kind of Animal
Sex
Condition of Animal (s)
Age
Color
Weight
Owners
Shots
Name
Owner
Address
Phone
Truck #
Shelter
Officer
Officer
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1.69.2 Richmond County Animal Control Adoption Agreement Form
ANIMAL RELEASE FORM FROM SHELTER
Name
Address
Phone
City
ANIMAL INFORMATION
Date in
Shelter Tag # Rabie #
Stray
Give-up Pick-up
Other
Species
Breed
Color
Sex
Name
IF THE OWNER CANNOT SHOW PROOF OF RABIE VACCINATION, A FEE OF $15.00 MUST BE PAID
FOR RABIE VACCINATION PRIOR TO ANIMAL'S RELEASE.
Vet. Name Year
County State
Expiration Date
CHECK ONE
Adopted
Reclaimed
Animal Bite-Quarantined
FEES
Reclamation
Adoption
Board
License
Rabies
Euthanasia
Carcass Disposal
Other
Total
NO REFUNDS
Richmond County Animal Control
assumes no responsibility for the health
of this animal. Animal owner/adoptees
are responsible for veterinary treatment
of animal.
Signature
Shelter Agent
Check
Payment Made By
Cash
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1.69.2 Form
ANIMAL CONTROL
ADOPTION AGREEMENT
DATE
1.69.2 Form
I do understand and agree, and so signify by my signature, that the animal I am adopting from the Richmond County
Animal Control Shelter has not been examined nor treated by a licensed veterinarian and has possibly been exposed
to any of the several infectious diseases, and do agree to take this animal to a licensed veterinarian for examination
and/or treatment within the next five (5) days, Richmond County Animal Control assumes no responsibility for the
health of this animal. Animal owner/adoptees are responsible for veterinary treatment of animal.
NO REFUNDS
Signature
Animal Control Agent
CASH
.
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so that the vein can be found.
c. The person who is injecting the animal will prepare the proper hypodermic syringe
containing the proper solution of Sodium Pentobarbital (1 cc per 10 lbs. of weight).
d. The person holding the dog should ensure that the dog is being properly held and they
should then stretch the leg outward.
e. The person doing the injection should locate the vein either by sight or touch. When
the vein is located, the left thumb should be run along the left side of the vein to provide stability.
f. The needle of the hypodermic syringe should be laid between the top and right side
of the vein. Using a downward and forward motion the vein should be penetrated. To ensure the vein has been
penetrated, the plunger of the hypodermic syringe should be pulled back. Blood should flow into the syringe. Ifno
blood is present, the needle has missed or gone through the vein. This step should then be repeated.
g. When the needle is in the vein, the person holding the leg will release it. The person
with the syringe will depress the plunger and inject the solution at a moderate rate.
h. After all the solution has been injected, the syringe will be removed. Direct pressure
will be applied to the location where the solution was injected to prevent bleeding.
2. Intraperitoneal Injection - This method will be used on puppies or kittens that are too small
for intravenous injections. This method will also be used on felines. The following procedures will be used:
a. The animal will be placed on the table on the left side. A firm, but not tight, grip should
be maintained on the animal.
iiii
b. The person injecting the animal will prepare the proper hypodermic syringe contain-
ing the proper amount of solution. The recommended dose is two (2) to three (3) times the amount of solution per
body weight used in intracardial injections.
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c. The person making the injection should locate the abdominal behind the rib cage on
the right side of the animal.
d. After the abdominal cavity is located, the injection should be made at a moderate rate.
The results of intra cardia I (heart) or intravenous (vein) injects are similar as is the reaction
time of the solution. When using any method of euthanasia the employee will allow ten (10) to fifteen (15) minutes
for the breathing heartbeat to stop. The animal should be carefully checked to determine if both breathing and
heartbeat have stopped before any further disposition made.
3. Intracardial Injection - Intracardial injection by thoracic cavity penetration is to be used on
unconscious animals. This method may be used in comatose animals following an anesthetic agent or intraperitoneal
injection. The following procedures will be used:
a. To use this method the animal should be placed on the table with its left side up. A
firm, but not tight, grip should be maintained on the scuff of the animal's neck. Using the same hand the thumb should
be placed securely behind the animal's ear.
b. The animal's hind legs should be slightly extended behind the animal.
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c. The person administrating the injection should feel the chest cavity to locate the
heartbeat or by bending the front leg. The heart will be located directly under the elbow.
d. After the heart has been located, the cardiac cavity should then be penetrated using
the hypodermic needle between the third and fourth rib. The solution will then be injected into the cavity at a moderate
rate.
When this method is used on a wild or vicious animals, it is recommended that the
animal be sedated prior to the euthanasia procedure. A control pole and/or a muzzle will be used when needed. The
animal will be held down and an attempt made to inject it using the intracardial procedures.
All three (3) methods should always be in compliance with the Georgia Department
of Agriculture's published procedures.
1.33.4 Drug Box
In order to keep accurate records on Schedule II drugs used by the Richmond County Animal Control
Section, the following procedures will be followed:
1. The Director is responsible for keeping all drugs in a secure location.
2. Officers needing drugs will contact the Director for access.
3. Al drugs are to be signed in and out.
4. If more solution is needed than the allotted 12cc's contained in the drug box, the OIC or
Director will be notified.
5. When the Euthanasia Solution is used, the officer using the solution will record the current
date, amount of the drug in cabinets amount of the drug used, internal number, identification tag number, type animal
being injected, and the officer's name. In the remarks section the officer should indicate why the drug was used; such
as sick, hit by car, etc. This information will be recorded in the logbook kept in the cabinet. If an injured animal is
taken to veterinarian and he recommends the animal is destroyed, the amount of solution recommended by the veterinarian will be indicated in the remarks section of this log.
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1.60.0 Logbook Procedures
A logbook is maintained to keep a written record of all animals handled by the kennel. The below listed
guidelines will be followed:
1. All animals brought into and housed at the facility will be entered into the logbook.
2. The logbook will be maintained in the shelter office and will not be removed from this location.
3. Entries into the logbook will be neat and legible. If a mistake is made, it will be neatly corrected _
- not scratched out.
4. Only the kennel staff, officer in charge, and employees bringing animals in on truck, log animals in.
Only the officer in charge will log any animal out.
5. Any animal that is returned to the owner, either from the kennel or off a vehicle, must be marked in
the appropriate section of the book.
6. Logbook entries should be made as follows:
a. Shelter tag number - The number in the lower right hand comer
b. Date in - The date the animal was brought into the shelter
c. Type animal - The breed of the animal
d. Color - The color of any special mixture of colors. Any special features the animal might have
will be listed in this section, such as one blue eye and one brown eye.
e. Pick up location - The specific address where the animal was picked up.
f. Internal number - Each animal that is a stray or turned in will receive a number. The only
exception to this is an animal with babies. In this case, one number can be assigned.
g. Pen number - The number of the pen the animal was placed in. If the animal was placed in
a holding area, the initials of that area should be written. If an animal is to be eUthanized immediately, then" 1 0-0"
will be written in. When an animal is being held for court, the pen number will be written in with "HFC" (Hold for
court) written above the pen number.
h. Date Out - Should be five days from the date in.
1. Disposition - The final disposition should be written. (reclaimed, died, adopted, etc.).
1.61.0 Personal Assignments
1.61.1 Shift Assignment
Day Watch operation from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
All shift assignments will be made by the Director.
1.61.2 On-Call Assignments
After normal duty hours during the week and on weekends, an officer will be placed on -call during
those hours when no one is on duty at the Animal Control Shelter. This assignment will be on a rotating basis for
a one (1) week period of time. Officers on-call will be assigned a Night Call Report Log to be kept on their person
at all times when they are not at their residences.
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Officers shall not be granted leave during their on-call assignment week.
Officer on-call shall respond to the following requests from Augusta Police Dispatcher and the
Richmond County Sheriff Department Dispatcher.
1.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Injured animal calls
Vicious animal complaints
Biting animal complaints
Police requests to impound animals
1.62.0 Check Procedures
1.62.1 Purpose
To ensure adequate information is obtained when accepting checks in order to facilitate collection
of efforts in the event that checks received are not honored.
1.62.2 Accepting Checks
Officer personnel are allowed to accept personal checks drawn on local metro Augusta bank to pay
for tags, board or impound fees. The check accepted shall be for the exact amount of the fee.
The following information will be required from individuals who appear at the shelter and desire to
pay fees by check:
Georgia driver's license (with picture). The employee taking the check shall verify that the
name on the check is the same as the individual on the license. The driver's license number shall be recorded on the
check.
Date of Birth: Must be recorded on the check.
Home Phone/Office Phone: Also, recorded on the check.
The accepting employee's initials will be recorded on the front of the check.
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1.65.0 Calls for Service/Dispatch Procedures
1.65.1 Purpose
To establish a uniform method for handling the reception and dispatching of calls for service.
1.65.2 When a member of the public calls regarding an animal that may have been picked up, they should
be informed, they have five days to pick up the animal before it is euthanized or put up for adoption. They should
also be informed that the impoundment day is counted as the first day. They will also be told when the animal is to
be euthanized or put up for adoption.
1.65.3 Handling Calls for Service - Telephone Calls
Personnel answering phone calls for service shall identify themselves by name, e.g. "Animal Control,
Ms. Smith." Officers should never answer "Animal Control, Officer Smith."
If they know, have the complainant give you the name and address of the owner of the animal they
are calling about. Try to get as accurate a description of the animal as possible, (e.g., breed, size, color, etc.). Have
the complainant describe what type complaint they have on the animal.
1.65.4 Establishing Priorities
Once the above information has been obtained, the call-taker shall establish a priority for handling
the call prior to it being dispatched. The list of priorities which follows are to be used as a general guide for dispatching
calls for service and not intended to be all encompassing:
Signal
10-11
1 0-12
10-16
10-24
1 0-1 7
10-18
1 0-18
10-16
10-19
Description
Animal Bite
Sick/Injured Animal
Owner Animal Give-up
Cruelty Cases
Vicious Animal
Dead Animal
Incident Report
Animal in Trap
Stray Animal
Priority
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1.65.5 Dispatching Calls
The dispatcher (if different from the call taker) shall dispatch the call to the appropriate patrol unit
and mark the appropriate block with the time and date of dispatch.
1.67.0 TrCl!> Procedures
This section will maintain accurate records of traps released to individuals and where the traps are located;
as well as to maintain information on damaged or stolen traps, and the price to repair or replace these traps.
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Prior to turning over any trap a "Trap Release" form will be completed as follows:
1. Name of person requesting trap
2. Address of person requesting trap
3. City
4. State
5. Zip Code
6. Phone Number
7. Date trap released from shelter
8. Date due in
9. Driver's license number
10. Date of Birth on driver's license
11. What kind of trap released (K-5, raccoon, feline)
12. Tag number on trap
13. Number of traps person receives
14. Value on the trap (K-9 $150.00, raccoon and feline $75.00)
15. Total value of all traps released to person
16. Signature of person requesting trap
17. Signature of officer releasing trap (If an officer releases or sets out trap (s) without the signature of
the person requesting the trap (s), the officer will be responsible for them. The officer will complete the "Trap
Release" form each time one is used.)
18. Date trap returned
19. Signature of officer receiving the trap
20. Current date
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1.68.0 Incident Report
1.68.1 Purpose
To provide guidelines and information for use in completing a Richmond County Animal Control
Incident Report.
1.68.2 General Guidelines
1. An "Animal Control Incident Report" will be completed when the following occurs:
a. A citation is issued for a violation of the Richmond County Animal Control Ordinance.
b. An animal bites another animal or human.
c. Anytime an animal is impounded.
2. An incident report should have the following qualities:
a. Clear - The language and format must be simple and to the point. Facts presented should
be in a logical sequence, most often in the order they occurred.
b. Legible - All incident reports will be neatly printed in black ink so they can be easily
read. Incident reports should be double spaced.
c. Complete - All available and related facts must be included. The incident report should
answer the basic questions of who, what, when, where, why and how. Care should be taken to ensure that
complete accurate addresses, including zip codes as well as home and work telephone numbers are obtained.
d. Accurate - The incident report should be based on factual information. Care should be
taken in recording all information to ensure that it is accurate.
e. Brief - The incident report should be as brief as possible to the extent that it eliminates
unnecessary words without the loss of facts.
1.68.3 Completing the Incident Report
The Incident report will be completed as follows:
Incident Section
1. Incident Type - Enter the violation of the Animal Control Ordinance. If the incident is not a violation,
enter the word (s) that best describe the incident.
2. Count - Enter the number of times each offense occurred. Normally, this number is one (1).
3. Location Code - This is used only for bite cases. Enter the year, month, and day.
4. Location of Pick Up - Check the appropriate block.
5. Incident Location - Enter the complete street address and city where the incident occurred. This will
include apartment numbers if appropriate. Abbreviations may be used. If a numerical street address is not available,
enter the street/road name, or highway number, and city. More specific information can be described in the narrative
if necessary.
6. Incident Date/Time - Enter the date and time the incident occurred. The time is entered using military
time. If the date and time are not known, enter the earliest date and time the incident could have occurred.
Complaint Section
7. Complaint - Enter the complaint's last name, first name, and middle initial. If the information is not
known, enter "unknown." Ifit is the same as the victim, enter "see victim."
8. Complainant's Address - Enter the complete street address including zip codes for the complainant.
9. Complainant's Phone Number - Enter the home phone number for the complainant.
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10. Victim - Enter the victim's name, first name and middle initial.
11. Victim's Address - Enter the complete street address including the zip code for the victim.
12. Phone - Enter the victim's home telephone number in the appropriate block and the business number
if appropriate.
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20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
and state.
26.
entered).
27.
28.
13. Sex - Enter the letter which describes the victim's sex.
M - Male F - Female
14. Age - Enter the age of the victim.
15. Race - Enter the letter which describes the victim's race.
W - WhiteINon-Hispanic Origin
B - BlackINon-Hispanic Origin
I - American Indian or Alaskan Native
A - Asian or Pacific Islander
L - White/Hispanic Origin
H - Black/Hispanic Origin
16. DOB - Enter the victim's date of birth.
17. SSN - Enter the victim's social security number, or operator's license number and state, ifavailable.
Owner's Section
18. Owner - Enter the owner's last name, first name. If this is not known, enter "unknown".
19.
Address - Enter the complete address of the owner including the zip code.
Phone - Enter the home and business phone numbers for the owner.
Sex - Enter M or F.
Age - Enter the owner's age.
Race - Enter the owner's race using the abbreviations provided under #15.
DOB - Enter the owner's date of birth.
SSN or Owner's Drivers License - Enter the owner's social security number of driver's license number
Citation Section
Charges - Enter the title of the Animal Control Ordinance violation (up to three (3) charges may be
Code Section - Enter the numerical code section violation.
Counts - Enter the number of times each offense was committed.
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29. Citation Number - Enter the citation number for each citation issued.
30. Court - Circle the court, Magistrate or state where the charges will be heard.
31. Date and Time - Enter the date and time the case is scheduled for court.
Animal Identification Section
32. Date - Enter the date the animal is brought into the shelter next to "in." If the animal can be adopted,
enter the date of adoption next to "adpt."
33. Collar - Enter the number from the shelter tag # next to tag number. Next to "type" enter the type of
collar on the animal. If none, enter "none."
34. Tag info - Enter the number on the animal's Rabies tag from the collar. If non, enter "none." Next
to "CntylYr" enter the county and year which the tag was issued.
35. Health - Circle the most appropriate condition.
36. BreediSizefWgt. - Enter the breed and weight of the animal on the first line and circle the most
appropriate size on the second line.
37.
Color - Enter the color of the animal.
38.
or female.
Age/Sex - Enter the known or approximate age of the animal in years and months. Circle either male
39. Condition - If the animal is sick or injured, circle the appropriate word. If a vet has been consulted,
enter their name next to "vet.'
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40.
Ears - Circle the appropriate descriptive term.
41. Tails - Circle the appropriate descriptive term.
42. Coat Lgt. - Circle the appropriate descriptive term.
43. Date Cleared - Enter the date and reason the animal is cleared.
44. Date/Time Recv. - Enter the date and time the notification is received.
45. Received - Enter the manner in which the animal came to the attention of the officer.
46. Date/Time Arr. - Enter the date and time the officer arrived at the scene.
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Narrative Section
47. Narrative - This section provides space for a brief account of the incident. This section may be used
to list any witnesses, addresses, and phone numbers. Any pertinent information should be included in this space.
48. Reporting Officer - The investigating/reporting officer signs here.
49. Approved by - The approving supervisor initials here.
50. Pen No. - The pen number the animal is placed in is entered here.
51. Case No. - This number is assigned internally and assigned only to bite cases.
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Incident Type Count Location Code
1.1 12.1 3. I
Incident Location Incident Time Date
5.1 I 6. I I I
I CompWnant Address
18.,
7.1
Victim Address
10.1 111.1
Sex Age Race DOB SS.No. or D.L. No.
13. [=:J 14.1 115.1 116. , , 17.1
Owner Address
18. I 119.j DOB SS.No. D.L. No.
Sex Age Race or
21.022., 123., 124., , 25. I
CharjZes Code Section Count Citation No.
26.1 I 27. I 128.1 129.1
Pick Up Location
4. I I Highway
I I Residence
I I Business
I I Street
Phone
9.,
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Collar 133
Shelter # I
Type I
Phone (Home)
I 12.1
Phone (Bus)
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Phone (Home)
I 20.1
Phone (Bus)
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30. Court
I I City
31.
I Date
County
Time
~ Dat<
. :~p"
132
Breed/Size/W et 136
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SM MED LG XLI
Ears Semi Pricked 40
Cropped I Flop
Pricked I Bat
Date/Time I
44.
ll~lon
137
Tag Info.
Rabies #
Cnty/Yr.
134
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Health
Poor
Good
Tails 141
Long Docked I
Ring Bushy I
Received
D Internal
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Condition 139
Sick I Injured I
Vet: 1
Date Cleared 143
Date I
Reason I
DatefTime Arrv.
45. I
46 Narrative
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47 Reporting Officer I 48 Co-Worker I
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Coat Lgt.
Long
Curly
D Self-Into
D Radio
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RICHMOND COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL
4164 Mack Lane, Augusta, Georgia 30906
Phone (404) 790-6836
(Please Print)
Loaned to (1)
Address (2)
City (3)
Date out (7)
Driver's License # (9)
Description of equipment (11)
Trap # (12)
Number of traps (13)
Value of each trap (14)
Total value (15)
State (4)
Zip Code (5)
Date due in (8)
Date of birth (10)
Phone (6)
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I hereby acknowledge receipt of the equipment or materials listed above and convenent to use the said
property in a careful manner. I will not loan or dispose of the same to any person without written consent of the
owner. I agree that I hold the Richmond County Department of Animal Control harmless from any liability
whatsoever resulting from the use of the undersigned. If a trap is stolen, a police report must be made. I further
agree to return the property on or before the agreed date.
I have read and understand the above rules.
Signature of person requesting trap (16)
Signature of officer releasing trap (17)
Date returned (18)
Signature of officer receiving trap (19)
Date (20)