BLOOMFIELD POLICE DEPARTMENT
Animal Control Unit

The Animal Control Unit provides for the response, resolution, licensing, enforcement
and administrative requirements of animal complaints received by the Department. The
Animal Control Unit is staffed by a full-time Animal Control Officer, under the
supervision of a Unit Supervisor. The unit receives support from Patrol Division staff on
weekends, holidays and the Animal Control Officer's days off.

Bloomfield investigates approximately 600 animal complaints a year.

Bloomfield uses the services of the Simon Foundation No-Kill Shelter for housing impounded animals.  Please refer questions concerning Bloomfield Animal Control Matters to the Bloomfield Animal Control Officer and not the Simon Foundation.

ADOPT AN ANIMAL

What is animal cruelty?

Animal cruelty involves depriving an animal of food, water, shelter and/or veterinary
care. Torturing, maiming or killing is also forms of animal cruelty.

Why would anyone be cruel to animals?

There are many reasons that people are cruel and abusive to animals. Some offenders
have indicated that they felt powerless, un-noticed or were under the control of other
people. Other offenders have felt a need to shock, threaten or intimidate a helpless victim
in order to demonstrate a rejection of society's rules. Some have abused animals to
retaliate against people who love animals or who have been cruel to that offender in the
past.

Pets in homes where there has been domestic violence are also often hurt. Animals in
these situations may be silent victims, who may be threatened, injured or killed by a
violent family member to control or intimidate other members of the household. And just
like other family members, animals need a place to be safe.

The recognition of the importance of the link between animal cruelty and criminal
behavior is currently drawing increased attention among behaviorists, the psychiatric
community and police. Some studies have indicated a connection between animal cruelty
and serial killers.

What are some signs of animal cruelty?

• Wounds on the body
• Patches of missing fur
• Extremely thin or starving animals
• Limping or trouble standing
• An owner striking or otherwise physically abusing an animal
• Dogs that are repeatedly left alone without food and water, often chained in a yard
• Dogs who have been hit by cars- or any of the signs listed above- and have not been
taken to a veterinarian
• Animals that are kept outside without proper shelter in extreme weather conditions
• Animals who cower in fear or act aggressively when approached by their owners

What can you do to help?

If you are aware or have witnessed any form of neglect or abuse to any animal, please
contact your local police or animal control department. Many people are concerned and
aware of abuse yet choose not to contact authorities because they don't want to get
involved or they fear any recourse from the person causing the abuse.

If you are unsure of an animals' condition please contact local authorities to report your
concerns. The local police and animal control personal are trained and have the
experience to properly investigate and deal with the suspects and victims if any
enforcement is needed to be taken. If you feel more comfortable remaining as an
anonymous complainant your concerns will be investigated.

Loud or Barking Dogs

Barking dogs bring almost daily complaints to the Bloomfield Police Department,
particularly in warm weather when windows are open. The Bloomfield Police
Department will investigate barking dog complaints.

Owners of barking dogs may be in violation of town ordinance and subject to a fine. In
addition to being against the law it is extremely inconsiderate to allow your dog or dogs
to bark when unnecessary. If your dog is barking investigate the cause.

Before reporting a dog that barks loudly and frequently first try to contact the dog's
owner.

For more information call 242-5501 ext. 5450 or email the Animal Control Officer.