Addressing Pet Neglect/Abuse
It is a sad fact that not everyone cares for dogs, cats and other small animals the way we do. Neglect and abuse cases occur, and require our support, compassion and assistance. Maine is fortunate to have a state-wide agency through the Department of Agriculture, called the Animal Welfare Program, which employs State Humane Agents and investigates and prosecutes cases of neglect and abuse for pets, farm animals and wildlife.
Municipalities also are required by state law to employ Animal Control Officers who can also investigate and address abuse and neglect situations. The GAHS works with the state program and our local ACOs to provide support, assistance and in many cases housing and care for these animals. However, we are not an enforcement agency and cannot investigate any potential cases.
All information related to cruelty or neglect situations should be reported to the proper authorities. Complaints received via email must contain the reporting party’s name and phone number, the name of the animal owner (if known), a physical address, a description of the animals and the type of complaint:
State of Maine Animal Welfare program: 207-287-3846
1-877-269-9200 (Toll Free) and Email: animal.welfare@maine.gov
Local Animal Control Officers
Auburn- ACO Officer Davison, Auburn Police Department- (207) 333-6650 x2058
Canton- ACO Eric Giroux (207) 743-9554
Greene- Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office- (207) 753-2500
Hebron- ACO Robert Larrabee, Oxford County Sheriff’s Office- (207) 743-9554
Leeds- Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office- (207) 753-2500
Lewiston- Lewiston Police Department- (207) 784-6421
Livermore- ACO Christa Powers (207) 753-2500Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office
Minot- ACO Robert Larrabee, Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office- (207) 753-2500
New Gloucester- ACO Charles Kinsella (207) 893-2310 Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office
Turner- Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office- (207) 753-2500
Wales- Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office- (207) 753-2500
Rumford- ACO Eric Giroux, Rumford Police Department- (207) 364-4551