I can no longer care for my animal. Can I surrender my animal to Mesa Animal Control?
We do not pick up or accept owned animals for surrender. The following organizations accept surrenders. Please contact them regarding fees and appointments.
Arizona Humane Society
1521 W. Dobbins Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85041
602-997-7585
Maricopa County Animal Care and Control
2500 S. 27th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85009
602-506-7387
Pet Housing Help AZ Task Force
Can I have my dog off leash? What about service animals?
It is unlawful to allow your dog to be off leash outside of your home or back yard (with the exception of being at a lawful dog park). All dogs must be leashed and kept under control when not contained in a fenced yard or inside of your home.
It is also unsafe, as your dog could be hit by a car, become lost or stolen, or get in a fight with another dog. Allowing your dog to run at large is a criminal offense under the Mesa City Code.
Service animals are required to follow the same leash laws. For exceptions, please visit the ADA website.
What should I do if I suspect animal abuse?
Call 911 immediately if you witness or have a reasonable belief that an animal is being abused or neglected or has been abandoned. The Mesa Police Department and Mesa Animal Control will determine what response is required, investigate, and take appropriate action, which may include criminal charges and prosecution.
What if my neighbor doesn't clean up after their animal?
A person must clean up their animal’s waste when walking them. Their own property must also be clean to avoid an unsanitary premise and to keep it from being offensive to sight and/or smell. To report failure to clean up animal waste, call Mesa Animal Control at 480-644-2268 or send an email to animalcontrol.info@mesaaz.gov.
Am I legally required to license my pet and how much does it cost?
All dogs in Maricopa County are legally required to have their rabies vaccination and be licensed. The rabies vaccination may be good for one to three years; however, the license must be renewed annually through Maricopa County Animal Care and Control. For more information and details about cost, visit the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control website.
Why is microchipping my pet important?
Microchipping is a permanent identification that has contact information on it and is implanted under the skin of your pet. The chip has a unique number that is detected by a microchip scanner. That number is recorded in a database registry and holds details about the animal and its owner.
Mesa Animal Control uses a microchip scanner to reconnect pets with their owners. It is important to keep your information up to date. Contact your local veterinarian to inquire about a microchip or visit the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control website for details about their service.
How do I foster or adopt a pet?
Local shelters have animals that are available for foster, and adoption. Below is a list of some local organizations:
Arizona Animal Welfare League
25 N. 40th St.
Phoenix, AZ 85034
602-273-6852
Arizona Humane Society
1521 W. Dobbins Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85041
602-997-7585
Heidi’s Village
600 N. 40th St.
Phoenix, AZ 85008
602-241-4640
Maricopa County Animal Care and Control
2500 S. 27th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85009
602-506-7387
What do I do if I find a snake in my yard?
First, stay calm and do not run. Take two big steps away from the snake. Do not try to engage with the snake in any manner.
Contact Mesa Animal Control at 480-644-2268. After hours, weekends, or holidays you may visit the Phoenix Herpetological Society site or call the hotline at 602-550-1090 for details about cost and removal process.