Sources & Details
Animal Control & Pounds by County
Have you seen the County Map? Go there first. This page offers supplemental information and research notes.
Pound | AC | Population | Sq.Mi. | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Autauga | ✔ | ✔ | 58,805 | 604 |
Baldwin | ✔ | ✔ | 231,767 | 2,027 |
Barbour | ✔ | ✔ | 25,223 | 905 |
Bibb | ✔ | ✔ | 22,293 | 628 |
Blount | ✔ | ✔ | 59,134 | 651 |
Bullock | ✔ | ✔ | 10,357 | 625 |
Butler | ✔ | — | 19,051 | 778 |
Calhoun | ✔ | ✔ | 116,441 | 612 |
Chambers | ✔ | — | 34,772 | 603 |
Cherokee | ✔ | ✔ | 24,971 | 600 |
Chilton | ✔ | ✔ | 45,014 | 701 |
Choctaw | ✔ | — | 12,665 | 921 |
Clarke | ✔ | — | 23,087 | 1,238 |
Clay | ✔ | — | 14,236 | 606 |
Cleburne | — | — | 15,056 | 561 |
Coffee | ✔ | — | 53,465 | 680 |
Colbert | ✔ | ✔ | 57,227 | 622 |
Conecuh | ✔ | — | 11,597 | 853 |
Coosa | — | — | 10,387 | 666 |
Covington | — | — | 37,570 | 1,044 |
Crenshaw | — | — | 13,194 | 611 |
Cullman | ✔ | ✔ | 87,866 | 755 |
Dale | ✔ | ✔ | 49,326 | 563 |
Dallas | ✔ | ✔ | 38,462 | 994 |
DeKalb | ✔ | ✔ | 71,608 | 779 |
Elmore | ✔ | ✔ | 87,977 | 657 |
Escambia | ✔ | ✔ | 36,757 | 953 |
Etowah | ✔ | ✔ | 103,436 | 549 |
Fayette | ✔ | ✔ | 16,321 | 629 |
Franklin | ✔ | ✔ | 32,113 | 647 |
Geneva | — | — | 26,659 | 579 |
Greene | — | — | 7,730 | 660 |
Hale | ✔ | ✔ | 14,785 | 657 |
Henry | — | — | 17,146 | 562 |
Houston | ✔ | ✔ | 107,202 | 582 |
Jackson | ✔ | — | 52,579 | 1,127 |
Jefferson | ✔ | ✔ | 674,721 | 1,124 |
Lamar | — | — | 13,972 | 605 |
Lauderdale | ✔ | ✔ | 93,564 | 721 |
Lawrence | ✔ | ✔ | 33,073 | 717 |
Lee | B | ✔ | 174,241 | 608 |
Limestone | ✔ | ✔ | 103,570 | 607 |
Lowndes | — | — | 10,311 | 716 |
Macon | — | ✔ | 19,532 | 613 |
Madison | ✔ | ✔ | 388,153 | 813 |
Marengo | — | — | 19,323 | 983 |
Marion | ½ | — | 29,341 | 744 |
Marshall | ✔ | ✔ | 97,612 | 623 |
Mobile | ✔ | ✔ | 414,809 | 1,644 |
Monroe | ✔ | — | 19,772 | 1,034 |
Montgomery | ✔ | ✔ | 228,954 | 800 |
Morgan | ✔ | ✔ | 123,421 | 599 |
Perry | B | — | 8,511 | 724 |
Pickens | — | — | 19,123 | 890 |
Pike | ✔ | ✔ | 33,009 | 673 |
Randolph | ✔ | — | 21,967 | 584 |
Russell | ✔ | ✔ | 59,183 | 647 |
St. Clair | ✔ | ✔ | 91,103 | 654 |
Shelby | ✔ | ✔ | 223,024 | 810 |
Sumter | — | — | 12,346 | 913 |
Talladega | ✔ | — | 82,149 | 760 |
Tallapoosa | — | — | 41,311 | 766 |
Tuscaloosa | ✔ | ✔ | 227,036 | 1,351 |
Walker | ✔ | — | 65,340 | 805 |
Washington | ✔ | — | 15,400 | 1,089 |
Wilcox | — | — | 10,600 | 907 |
Winston | ½ | — | 23,540 | 631 |
Scroll down or click each county name for details. B = The County has no shelter; impounded animals are boarded (hence the ‘B’) at a contracted veterinary facility. ½ = Marion and Winston counties share a single shelter. (Population and square mileage data is from Wikipedia.)
Research and notes are by Aubrie Kavanaugh (bulleted format, Autauga through Henry County) and Kristin Yarbrough (paragraph format, Houston through Winston County). If you have any questions or corrections, please be in touch.
—
Autauga County
- Contact: Autauga Humane Society, Inc. (334) 358-2882; Assistant Director Richard Cosgrove and Director Ivonne Hillary; April 28, 2025; ivonne2.pahs@gmail.com
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: Autagua County Humane Society, Inc. serves the county and the City of Prattville with financing from both. Lowndes County, to the south, has no animal shelter so they get calls for help. They tell people they need to take up the issue of sheltering and animal control with Lowndes County elected officials. Ivonne reported the shelter gets a lot of community support; if they tell people the shelter needs help, they step up to help.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: All animals at least 6 months old are spayed/neutered. If less than 6 months old, the adopter has to sign a contract agreeing to have it done by 6 months or at least have a vet appointment by 6 months. If not done as agreed, they shelter takes the animal back.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: No. She does a report but had not heard of the law before. I sent her the law at her request and a free reporting form.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. Autagua County employs an ACO who is a deputy and works for the Sheriff’s Office. The City of Prattville employs an ACO who is a police officer and works for the police department.
Baldwin County
- Contact: Wesley Majors, Baldwin County Animal Shelter Director; (251) 972-6834; April 24, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: managed by the county.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): not asked
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: not asked
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: Yes.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: posted on county website
- How many ACOs does the county employ? Do they work for the commission or the SO: county has ACOs, did not ask who they work for.
Barbour County
- Contact: Terra Pully, Humane Society of Barbour County, Inc. , 334-775-7477; May 1, 2025; ACO Scott Drives, 334-232-1201; May 4, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes, Barbour County Animal Control.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The county has 12 kennel shelter. The City of Eufaula has a separate animal shelter and 1ACO but the operations are separate.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold)? 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Mr. Drives said he can’t adopt out animals because he’s a government agency. He usually gets them to rescue groups and they are spayed/neutered by those groups.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: Mr. Drives had not heard of the law but does prepare a report that he submits to the county commission every month.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: People can request copies of his reports from the county commission.
- How many ACOs does the county employ? Do they work for the commission or the SO? Scott Drives is the only ACO and he works for the county commission.
Bibb County
- Contact: Brian Davis, County Administrator; 205-926-3114; April 24, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes, Bibb County Animal Control Facility. [Volunteer-run Fb; no official website found.]
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: managed by the county.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): did not ask.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Yes.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: Yes.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: did not ask
- How many ACOs does the county employ? Do they work for the commission or the SO? Has ACOs. Sheriff’s Office employs 5 ACOs.
Blount County
- Contact: Kristin Yarbrough, BlountAnimals.com; April 25, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes, Animal Adoption Center of Blount County [Fb].
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: managed by county for whole county (only city that brings in animals is Oneonta).
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Shelter Director Karen Startley reports that most older animals are sterilized prior to release to adopters. Voucher method is used for younger animals.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: report prepared but does not fully comply with act.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: have to ask for it. Kristin requests and then posts on the Blount Animals website.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. 1 ACO, Deputy Echols, employed by SO.
Bullock County
- Contact: Jenny Allen, Director, Bullock County Humane Society; 334-782-1952; May 1,
2025. - Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: Bullock County Humane Society contracts with the county and the City of Union Springs (with funding from both).
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Yes, if age appropriate. If the animals are too young, they will go track the adopters down. It’s a small community and easy to enforce.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: She has heard of it, but just don’t doesn’t have time for it. She keeps numbers and does monthly and annual reports to her board.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. She is animal control for the county.
- If outsourced to a nonprofit, do you know how many the nonprofit employs. She has one full time employee and typically has 2 seasonal part time employees. She also uses interns.
Butler County
- Contact: Kay Lightfoot, County Administrator, 334-382-7806; April 24, 2025 and Greenville Shelter Director Christy Sexton; 334-382-7806; April 29, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes, Greenville Animal Shelter.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office. The shelter is operated by the City of Greenville for the city and the county with the county contributing funds.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: animals are spayed/neutered if old enough. If not, adopter signs a contract agreeing to have it
done. Of ages is 6 months but can be 3 months if opening at spay neuter clinic they use — Alabama Animal Alliance of Montgomery.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: they send stats to Best Friends Animal Society but she has not heard of the law.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. The City employs 2 ACOs and a jail employee helps them set traps.
Calhoun County
- Contact: Naomi Richards, Animal Control Director, 256-241-2929, May 2, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: By the county, for the county and some cities in the county with financial support (cities not specified).
- ow many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Some are spayed/neutered prior to adoption. Others have an appointment scheduled at the time of adoption. They sign a contract and are responsible for transporting their new family member to the veterinarian used by the shelter.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: Yes.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: A written request is submitted to the county commission.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. There are 2 – the animal control director and one other ACO. They both work for the commission.
Chambers County
- Contact: Regina Chambers, County Manager, 334-476-2540; April 25, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: County contracts with Chattahoochee Humane Society [Fb].
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): did not ask.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Yes.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act. Yes.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: Made available upon request.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. ACOs are employed by the municipalities in the county, county does not employ an ACO.
Cherokee County
- Contact: Dustin Levii, Animal Control Director; April 29, 2025.
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The shelter is run by the county. It serves the cities of Centre, Leesburg, Cedar Bluff and the county as whole. Others do not
contribute to costs.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: yes, if old enough. Will fix as young as 2 months. If the animal is not old enough or big enough, the adopter signs an agreement to get it done with the county setting up an appointment. If the person doesn’t comply, they take the animal back.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: yes.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: Reports are not published online but can be requested from the county commission.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. They pick up animals in the whole county, but if a city has a police department, they handle criminal or civil matters. One ACO is on the road at all times and Dustin goes out as needed.
Chilton County
- Contact: Sylvia Singleton, County Administrator, 205-755-1551, April 29, 2025, and Shelter Director Christina Bollack, 205-287-0502, April 29, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes, Chilton County Animal Shelter.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The county took over the Humane Society of Chilton County on January 1, 2025. It runs the shelter for the county and the cities in the county including Clanton which contribute funds.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: All animals are spayed, neutered unless they are too young. If too young, they go home with a 30-day sterilization agreement (which is very rare).
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: yes.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: reports are put online.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. The county has 1 ACO who is a deputy. The cities have their own ACOs.
Choctaw County
- Contact: Jessica Hare, County Administrator, 205-459-6956; April 24, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: County has contract with a person who runs a shelter. [Choctaw County Animal Shelter?]
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: Contracted to a private individual.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): did not ask.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: County has paid bills for SN but is not sure if done consistently.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: Has never heard of that.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: N/A
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. There are no ACOs. People can bring people to the shelter if they want.
Clarke County
- Contact: Christy Roberts, County Administrator; 251-275-3507 and Shelter Director Lisa Blackledge, 251-275-1055; May 5, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The shelter is run by the Clarke County Commission for the benefit of the county and the cities and all cities in the county contribute.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days. If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Yes.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: Ms. Roberts has never heard of the law. The shelter used to post statistics online but haven’t lately as they are behind on putting paperwork into their database.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. The county has no animal control officer. The cities of Jackson, Grove Hill and Thomasville each have an ACO.
Clay County
- Linda Varner, Clay County Clerk; 256-354-7888; May 5, 2025; Linda Clausen, Clay County Animal Shelter, Inc.; 251-402-6513, May 7, 2025; Ann East, Clay County Animal Shelter, Inc.; May 9, 2025; Clay County Sheriff’s Office, 256-354-2176.
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes, by contract.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The county contracts with a nonprofit called the Clay County Animal Shelter, Inc. using 20% of the county’s tobacco tax. The county only serves the county and not cities.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): Ms. Clauson is not sure. The shelter is a No Kill facility that keeps all animals until a good home is found.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Absolutely. If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: No. Ms. Clausen had not heard of the statute. The statute and a form were provided upon Ms. Clausen’s request. If so, are they published online or how are they made available: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. The City of Ashland does animal control. The Sheriff’s Office does not have an animal control officer.
Cleburne County
- Contact: Lisa Copeland, County Administrator, 256-463-3827; May 1, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: No. A shelter is being built but will be managed by a nonprofit the name of which she does not know.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: N/A.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. No.
Coffee County
- Contact: John Rodgers Morgan III, County Administrator; 334-894-5556; April 25, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes, but doesn’t run it.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: county contracts with City of Elba for sheltering, plans to work with City of Enterprise for joint shelter in future.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: no, give voucher.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: the county administrator does not know and the city could not be contacted to determine if a report is prepared.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. Mr. Morgan said the county would not have ACOs even when the county begins working with Enterprise.
Colbert County
- Contacts: Roger Creekmore, County Administrator, 256-386-8501 and Animal Shelter
Director Charles Speegle; May 1, 2025; 256-263-7291,
colbertanimalservices@gmail.com
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: Colbert Animal Services is a nonprofit formed by Colbert County and the cities of Muscle Shoals, Sheffield and Tuscumbia.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Most but not all are. Mr. Speegle got a grant from a county commissioner to help and aspires to do this in the future. The adoption contract says spay/neuter is required. - If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: Yes. Mr. Speegle presents it at the monthly meeting of the nonprofit board.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: Requests can be submitted to him or his board
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. Mr. Speegle and 2 ACOs, all employed by the nonprofit.
- If outsourced to a nonprofit, do you know how many the nonprofit employs. 12 total between animal control and the animal shelter.
Conecuh County
- Contact: Jonathan Hicks, Shelter Director, 251-578-2440; April 30, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The shelter serves the whole county even though the City of Evergreen has its own shelter. He is employed by the county commission.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): the stray hold is 10 days but animals are kept as long as 90 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Adopters sign a contract. About 90% comply and the county commission has chosen not to pursue those who do not comply.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: No. Has never heard of that.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: No.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. There is no animal control in the county.
Coosa County
- Contact: Amy Gilliland, County Administrator; 256-377-1350; April 25, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: No.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. None.
Covington County
- Contact: Karen Sowell, County Administrator; 334-428-2610; May 1, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: No. The cities have shelters but the county does not and the county does not contract with the cities.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: N/A.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. None.
Crenshaw County
- Contact: Dawn Rayborn, County Administrator; 334-335-6568; April 25, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: no.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. None.
Cullman County
- Contact: Cullman County Shelter Director Andrea Hudson, 256-7344-5448; April 30, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The shelter is run by the Cullman County Commission. It provides services to the City of Cullman and is currently helping Hanceville until that city determines the future of its disbanded police department in the wake of criminal allegations.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: Animals are spayed/neutered unless too young. Adopters picked them up from the veterinary office. If the animal is too young, the adopter gets voucher to do later and the shelter follows up. They are very strict about compliance.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: yes.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: Reports are requested from the county commission.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. The Animal Control Director is under commission and has 3 ACOs who work for him. The City of Cullman also has an ACO.
- (Note from Kristin: See At Large notes for details about ACO APOSTC certification.)
Dale County
- Contact: Captain Glenn Peters, City of Ozark Police Department, 334-400-4267, May 1, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: The county contracts for sheltering for Dale County
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The City of Ozark Animal Shelter takes dogs from Dale County through a contract with the county.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: no.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: a report is prepared every month.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: requests for the report can be made to him and he forwards to the police chief’s secretary.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. Sheriff’s Office deputies do animal control for the county.
Dallas County
- Contacts: Barbara Harrell, County Administrator, 334-874-2560 and Selma & Dallas County Animal Shelter Director Hatwatha McGhee, 334-327-2888; April 25, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: The City of Selma runs a shelter that serves the city and the county.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: yes.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: yes
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: has information available, when I asked Ms. McGhee if I could request it, she said it would depend on who I am and why I want the information.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. David Johnston handles Animal Control for the county. The city has 2 ACOs.
DeKalb County
- Contact: Dustin Levii, Cherokee County ACO (trainer for DeKalb County).
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The shelter is managed by the county for the county and for the cities of Rainsville and Fort Payne.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: yes, if old enough. Will fix as young as 2 months. If the animal is not old enough or big enough, the adopter signs an agreement to have it done.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: yes.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: they are posted publicly.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. There is 1 ACO employed by the county commission. Rainsville and Fort Payne both have an animal control officer.
Elmore County
- Contact: Rea Cord, Director, Humane Society of Elmore County, Inc. (334) 567-3377 April 29, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: Run by Humane Society of Elmore County, Inc. for the county and the cities of Wetumpka, Tallassee and Millbrook with funding by county and cities.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: 100%.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: She keeps data but doesn’t prepare a report. She could create a report if asked.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: A report can be requested from Rae Cord.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. The Sheriff’s Office employes 1 ACO and each city has an ACO.
- If outsourced to a nonprofit, do you know how many the nonprofit employs. 13, some are part-time.
Escambia County
- Contact: Escambia County Animal Control and Shelter, 251-867-1346, Director David Cole is ACO and shelter manager.
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The county runs the shelter and lets cities bring dogs to the shelter.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: No. There is no adoption fee but people sign a contract that they will spay/neuter within 30 days and provide proof.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: a report is prepared and sent to the Sheriff’s Office (it is not clear if it complies with the Cenuse Act).
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: Not known.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. The Sheriff’s Office employs one part-time ACO and Mr. Cole does animal control part-time.
Etowah County
- Contact: Etowah County Animal Shelter, Director Gracie Griggs, 256-494-5422; April 25, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes. [Etowah County Animal Shelter]
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: Managed by the county.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: yes.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: yes.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: not sure.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. 2 ACOs who work for the county.
Fayette County
- Contact: Nancy Hodges, County Administrator, 205-932-4510 And ACO/Shelter Director Phil Holliman 205-442-5115; April 25, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes. [Fayette County Animal Shelter; Fb]
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: Run by county, provide services for city and city pays the county.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 10 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: spay/neuter program with voucher as long as have funds, if not SN before adoption then no adoption fee charged. Program is for any animals in the county and not just shelter animals; trying to help people to keep pet populations low.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: ACO doesn’t know what that is.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. 1 ACO who also runs shelter.
Franklin County
- Contact: Joey Wingo, ACO for Franklin County Animal Shelter, 256-332-1217, April 29, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: Run by the county for the county only. The building is being expanded and they plan to do adoptions in the future.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: They are not currently doing adoptions.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: He has heard of the act but heard conflicting information. He keeps up with the animals they have.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. He is the one ACO who works for the county commission.
Geneva County
- Contact: City of Geneva ACO Officer Kevin Carroll, contacted through City of Geneva Police Department, 334-684-6496; May 6, 2025; contact unsuccessful through Cindy Williams, Chief Administrative Clerk, 334-684-5600 and County Attorney W. Phillip Eldridge
- Does the county have an animal shelter: No. The City of Geneva has an animal shelter that is not used by the county.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: N/A.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): N/A.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: N/A.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: N/A. If so, are they published online or how are they made available: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. There is 1 ACO for the City of Geneva and none for the county.
Greene County
- Contact: Brenda Burke, County Administrator, 205-372-6908; April 24, 2025.
- Does the county have an animal shelter: No.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: No.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. No.
Hale County
- Contact: Laurie Nevin, Director of Hale County Animal Shelter [shelter design by Rural Studio]; 334-624-8120; April 26, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: Yes, run by a nonprofit with some county money.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: The small shelter is run by Friends of Hale County Animal Shelter with the county contributing 29k a year and some funding from animal aid. The shelter only takes in stray animals. It will take owner surrenders only if the owner dies or ends up in a nursing home. If a dog has to be quarantined for rabies, it goes to Dr. James Payne (the county rabies officer) or Dr. Perry. The county is bordered by Greene and Perry counties which have no shelter and people often call asking for help that cannot be provided.
- How many days are impounded animals held (stray hold): 7 days.
- If yes, are all animals spayed/neutered before adoption: yes, if age appropriate (6 months or older). If too young, given a certificate for free SN and rabies shot.
- If yes, does the shelter prepare reports monthly to comply with the Animal Census Reporting Act: yes, submits it to board of directors.
- If so, are they published online or how are they made available: have to ask for it
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. There are no ACOs per se. If there is a call about an emergency situation, a shelter employee will go out but only if a deputy is present.
Henry County
- Contact: Dawn Shirley, County Administrator; (334) 585-3708; April 24, 2025
- Does the county have an animal shelter: No.
- If yes, it is managed by the county, outsourced to a nonprofit or does the county contract with a veterinary office: N/A.
- How many ACOs does the county employ. Do they work for the commission or the SO. None.
Houston County
Source: Walter Lewis, Senior Rabies Control Officer for Houston County, via tel on Apr. 25, 2025. Walter stated that Houston County has a contract with Dothan Animal Shelter, which is run directly by the City of Dothan. He believes that the 7-day stray hold is honored, and answered affirmatively that all animals are sterilized prior to adoption. Walter did not know whether the shelter prepares monthly census reports. The County’s AC is called Rabies Control; its two officers are employed by the Commission, Walter said.
Dothan Animal Shelter is operated by the City’s PD, according to the PD website, which also states that the shelter’s “euthanasia rate” was 3% in 2021. The shelter appears to have two pages on Facebook. The City of Dothan Animal Services appears to include at least five staff members, including Department Manager Bill Banks, and the nonprofit Wiregrass Humane Society appears to be located next door or on the same property.
Jackson County
Source: ACO Kelly Parker, Scottsboro PD, on an Apr. 25, 2025 phone call. Kelly stated that Scottsboro/Jackson County Animal Shelter is operated jointly by the Jackson County SO and Scottsboro PD. The shelter follows the state’s 7-day stray hold, he said. Animals are released to adopters with an appointment for sterilization; it is the adopter’s responsibility to bring the pet to the appointment. Kelly believes “the other guy” at the shelter prepares monthly census reports. The County has no ACOs; Kelly said they are working on hiring one. (Scottsboro PD employs three ACOs according to the PD website.)
Jefferson County
On Apr. 25, 2025, I spoke with Kristin Pierson, GBHS dispatch manager, and then emailed the questions at her request. Kristin replied the same day, stating that “Gbhs Animal Care and Control is the housing facility for the areas our acos cover, Birmingham, Hueytown, Adamsville, and Bessemer. Hoover, Mountain Brook, Homewood, and dogs from Vestavia Hills have a different housing facility.” She answered affirmatively that all animals are sterilized prior to adoption and that the shelter prepares and publishes monthly census reports (e.g., as described inthe Animal Census Reporting Act). Regarding AC, Kristin wrote, “We are a division of the Greater Birmingham Humane Society that is contracted with Jefferson County to run their animal control services. At this current time, we have four acos including the field services supervisor. At full staff, we have six acos.”
Lamar County
Source: Christy Cantrell, Commission payroll, via tel on Apr. 25, 2025. Christy stated that the County has no shelter, no vet contract, and no animal control. She said that cities do have animal control. (The nonprofit Lamar County Humane Society addresses the situation in their FAQ.)
Lauderdale County
Source: Jordan, front desk at the Florence Lauderdale Animal Services, via tel on Apr. 25, 2025. Jordan stated that the shelter is funded and operated by both Lauderdale County and the City of Florence. The shelter does follow the 7-day stray hold. Older pets are sterilized prior to adoption; for younger pets, adopters agree to have the animal sterilized and costs are included in the adoption fee. Jordan said area some area vets require pets to be 6 months old. She wasn’t sure about shelter data. (The Florence AC page includes 2021 and 2022 shelter data.) AC dispatch is handled by the City of Florence for both the City and the County, she said, and shelter director Cheryl Jones handles ACO hiring. Jordan stated that the ACOs all respond to both City and County calls, and in addition to daytime availability, typically one officer is on call each night.
Lawrence County
Source: Anthony Wilbanks, ACO and director at Lawrence County Animal Shelter (256-974-2514), on an Apr. 29, 2025 call. Anthony stated that the Commission operates the shelter directly. He wasn’t sure if any cities contribute. Anthony, Tommy, and a “weekend guy” are the only shelter staff and ACOs. The shelter does follow a 7-day stray hold, Anthony said, and mentioned that the shelter ends up “babysitting dogs” because there is no fee charged for reclaims. The Commission would have to approve a fee and has not.
Adopters are provided vouchers for sterilization and the rabies shot. The shelter has 26 kennels and works with one rescue organization. Shelter data is not published; as explanation Anthony said that when he began at the shelter, there was no computer or land line. Tommy had been there seven years; “they just gave him a building.” We also spoke about his enforcement of § 3-1-5. Anthony was friendly and happy to share information; we spoke briefly about this website and he invited me to call anytime.
Lee County
Source: Terrell, ACO at Lee County Animal Control, via tel on Apr. 25, 2025. The County does not have a shelter. Impounded animals are boarded with a contracted vet office, Animal Health Center. Impounded animals are posted on the AHC Facebook page and on the Lee County AC Recovered Pets page. Strays are held for 7 days, Terrell said. He was not sure whether any data is prepared. Lee County Animal Control is structured under the Commission’s Environmental Services department. Terrel said that there are three County ACOs: Terrell, Chief ACO Lisa Wimberley, and another officer.
I also spoke with Josh, health manager at the nonprofit CARE Humane Society, since the organization’s website suggested that they are or were a contracted shelter. Josh said that the organization used to hold the County contract, but some years ago the County opted to instead board animals with vet offices (in addition to Animal Health Center, Josh mentioned Opelika Animal Hospital). CARE is currently the contracted shelter for Auburn and Opelika.
Limestone County
Source: Tev, vet tech at Limestone County Animal Care & Control, via tel on Apr. 25, 2025. Tev said that the Limestone County Animal Shelter is structured under both the Commission and the SO. They do honor the 7-day stray hold and sterilize all animals prior to adoption, she said. She believed that data is published on the County website (I did not find anything). The County’s two ACOs are SO officers. (Sept. 2024 articles published by WHNT and WAFF stated that the County declined Athens-Limestone Animal Shelter’s renewal bid, opting instead to handle AC and sheltering directly. The Athens-Limestone shelter was awarded the City of Athens contract in Sept. 2024, according to an AL.com article.)
Lowndes County
Source: County Administrator Jacqueline (Jackie) Thomas at the Commission office, via tel on Apr. 25, 2025. Jackie stated that the County has no shelter, no boarding contract, and no AC.
In Jan. 2023, County resident Melissa Peak “delivered a plea to Lowndes County Commissioners at a Jan. 9 meeting, requesting their help for pets in Lowndes County,” according to a Lowndes Signal article.
Macon County
Contact: Tracey Moon, human resources & payroll director at the Commission, (334-727-5120 x1), Apr. 30, 2025. Tracey said that although there is a (nonprofit) shelter in the County [Macon County Humane Society (Fb)], the County does not fund it. As to ACOs, Tracey said Tuskegee City has ACO(s); Macon County does not, though they do have a Compliance Office which lists AC among their many responsibilities.
Second contact: Josetta Stewart, office manager at the Compliance Office (334-724-2554). Should the Compliance Office be considered AC? On May 5, Josetta Stewart, office manager at the Compliance Office said there is no AC staff, just herself and Jabari Ware in the Compliance Office. The Compliance Office webpage lists AC among many duties. Josetta said their primary AC responsibility is to collect loose dogs, a task on which building and grounds department staff assist. Impounded dogs are taken to the HS if space is available or to Big Dog Ranch Rescue in Shorter, where Josetta said they are held for “a couple days,” and some owners reclaim. I asked whether the Compliance Office handles cruelty investigations, and Josetta said they would turn over the case to the SO.
Other attempts: I left a vm for County Administrator Joshua Anthony at the Commission office on Apr. 25, 2025; on follow-up calls on Apr. 28 and Apr. 30, there was no answer. There was no answer on an Apr. 30 call to ask about the AC duties of the Compliance Office, and again the phone only rang on May 1, so I emailed the Compliance Office. I also was curious what Macon County HS would say about their arrangement with the County; the only contact option shown for them is a chat through their website, so I sent a message on May 6. On May 7, their Fb was functioning (after having been offline) so I sent a message through it.
Madison County
Madison County information is from John Fletcher, Director of Huntsville Animal Services, via Aubrie Kavanaugh. Yes, a shelter is managed by the City of Huntsville with county paying a per animal intake fee. Yes, all animals SN before adoption. Yes, reports prepared monthly. Yes, county has an animal control department with multiple animal control officers; COH has own animal control staff.
Marengo County
On Apr. 29, 2025, County Administrator Shannon Drake (334-295-2200 x8x1) said that the County currently has no shelter, no vet contract, and no AC; plans for a shelter are in beginning stages. Shannon mentioned Bigbee HS but was not certain whether they were funded at all by the County. I messaged Bigbee to ask, and heard back from Whitney Hall on Apr. 30 that “We’ve been asking for a county shelter since 2016. There is no contract, the commission gives us $5000 a year donation.”
Marion County
In Marion County, I first spoke to Lori Carter, accounts payable at the Commission, on Apr. 25, 2025, who was somewhat familiar with handling of animals in the county. She mentioned Hoof or Paw (Fb), stating that they take horses, dogs, and cats when they have space, then said there is “someone else who takes in animals in Winfield and puts them down after 10 days.” Lori thought both they receive funding from the County. Lori stated that there is no County AC; the only AC is in the City of Hamilton.
That “someone else” is the County’s shelter, Marion-Winston Animal Shelter (Fb is not maintained) (205-487-2581). I spoke with Charlotte Williams, who serves as director, CET, kennel tech, transporter — she is the sole operator. Charlotte is paid (as a contractor, if I understood correctly) by the County. The arrangement began over 20 years ago, she said. Charlotte and her husband trained dogs for Border Patrol and other agencies at their 38-run facility; they shut down the service when her husband had a stroke. The County then approached them and she has been running the shelter since, receiving some funding but not enough to cover costs. She does keep regular public hours. The County used to have AC, but currently does not, Charlotte said. Residents bring in strays which she is required to accept, and she does keep to the 7-day stray hold. She occasionally accepts surrenders, in situations such as the death of the owner. Small dogs, challenged by the shelter environment, go to Hoof or Paw which does home-based sheltering. Spay and neuter is challenging as the only real option is the Irondale clinic. She meets the bus/van in Jasper, a 45-mile drive, to meet the van, and returns the next day to pickup.
She does have some volunteer help, primarily community service, which she said works just fine since the workers prefer to work in the shelter rather than picking up trash. Other volunteers are mostly unavailable during the school year, with more availability when school is out, Charlotte said. Insurance is a challenge because the cost is very high due to the liability posed by volunteers. Charlotte also spoke about the low prioritization of animals by the County, stating that animals fall “below potholes” in terms of importance and that the Commission would rather just not talk about County animal needs. She mentioned a new shelter being built by Franklin County with a 50-run kennel. Understandably, Charlotte said she is burnt out after 20 years in sheltering and her husband passing away last year, and “won’t be doing this much longer.”
On Apr. 29, Charlotte confirmed that she is contracted with Winston County as well.
Marshall County
Marshall County information is from Ashleigh Bubbett, County Administrator, via Aubrie Kavanaugh. Yes, managed by Marshall County. Yes, all animals SN before adoption. Yes, reports prepared monthly. Yes, county has 1 ACO.
Mobile County
Mobile County deserves praise for their informative website (see links in the right column, or on a phone, use the red arrow to navigate) and Facebook page which addressed nearly all questions before I even picked up the phone. The Mobile County Animal Shelter is operated by the Commission, according to the Facebook page. Stray hold is 7 days, according to the Services page, and the Shelter FAQ states animals are sterilized prior to adoption. Shelter data is published on the Statistics page and (as of this Apr. 26 writing) is up to date! According to an announcement published on Nov. 1, 2019, Mobile County ACOs were deputized in 2019 to allow them to issue citations for the Dogs at Large law, which the Commission adopted in Nov. 2018.
Monroe County
Monroe County information is from Trisha, director of Monroe County Animal Shelter (Fb page). (The County page lists Sue Evans as director; Trisha said Sue left 8 years ago.) The shelter was awarded 501c3 status last year, Trisha said. Funds received from Monroe County and the City of Monroeville do not even cover payroll. The shelter does follow a 7-day stray hold and goes to great lengths to ensure that animals are sterilized prior to adoption. Trisha said access to SN services is insufficient. The shelter arranges transport for both shelter pets and owned animals to three clinics: a Foley clinic that is open only to shelters, a Mississippi clinic, and Save a Stray in Mobile. In previous years, vets were hostile to low cost SN efforts, but current vets do refer residents who cannot afford their SN to the shelter. Shelter data is sent to Best Friends Network. The County has no AC. She feels they can barely make a dent and is frustrated by the low availability of SN slots and Conecuh County’s practice of adopting out unsterilized animals without even requiring adopters to agree to have the surgery done; the puppies end up at the Monroe County shelter. See this blog post for photos and more information about Monroe County shelter. My heart goes out to Trisha.
Montgomery County
Montgomery County information is from Steve Tears, long-time director of Montgomery Humane Society on an Apr. 28, 2025 call. Steve called me back on his vacation day, spoke frankly and compassionately and intelligently about his experience and philosophy in sheltering and animal control, and encouraged me to save his personal cell. This day has been full of inspiring and heartbreaking conversations that make me want to shout my praise for several people across this state working in both animal welfare and governance who are setting a higher bar of integrity, openness, and generosity. I never would have guessed that this research could be so rewarding and informative.
Montgomery Humane Society is a nonprofit contracted with Montgomery County, the City of Montgomery, and the Town of Pike Road. Steve has directed the organization for 20 years. The HS honors a 7-day stray hold for dogs picked up in the county, or 5-day if in the City of Montgomery. All animals are sterilized prior to adoption, Steve said. Census data is published online, and is up to date as of this writing.
AC is handled directly by the HS. Six ACOs are on the street at a time serving the County, of a total of 11 sworn humane officers. The 5 that are not on duty can be brought in to help if needed, such as on hoarding or dogfighting cases. When I asked what was meant by “sworn,” Steve said that the Commission can designate human officer that by law, have the same powers as a deputy sheriff; however carrying this out also depends on the sheriff in question: previously, HS ACOs were armed, for example, but now (after a new sheriff was elected) they are not.
The contract with the County and in the Town of Pike Road (which has no ordinances) is to enforce state laws; in Montgomery, both statutes and city ordinances. We also spoke about enforcement of Alabama Code § 3-1-5, which I have recorded in the § 3-1-5 notes, and also about HB149, about Steve's commitment to serving the community, his empathy for people living in povery and their right to the companionship of a pet, his understanding that sometimes caring people use a chain or tether out of desperation when their dog keeps escaping, his emphasis of finding solutions so that residents can keep their pets, pressure from BFAS to improve stats at the expense of actually serving animals, etc. I am honored that he chose to share so openly. He was concerned about taking too much of his time; I was appreciating every bit of it (though also wanting him to enjoy his day off)! In the end my phone called it quits by needing a recharge after I had been on calls all morning (and since it’s a cordless phone, I had to hang it up to charge).
Morgan County
There was no answer at Morgan County Commission on Apr. 28, 2025 (256-351-4730). I sent a message to Morgan County Humane Society (Fb), which appears to be an independent nonprofit shelter, and talked to the wonderful Marci who confirmed that HS funding is through grants and donations; no government funding. She ensures that every animal adopted through the HS is sterilized; she refuses intakes from residents who are intentionally allowing their animals to breed; and when she does take in litters, she makes sure she receives mama too. She confirmed that the County does run Morgan County Animal Services (Fb), which includes both a shelter and AC (and Decatur PD operates Decatur Animal Services).
Perry County
I left a vm for the County Administrator at the Commission on Apr. 28, 2025 (334-683-2200 x1x1). My next call was to Bambi at Pawsitive Hearts of Perry County (205-928-2944), a 501c3 which does not receive government funding. She is working on securing a building for sheltering. We spoke briefly about the situation in Perry County, which she said has no shelter and contracts with a vet for boarding; however boarding space is very limited. Bambi said the County used to have an ACO but no longer does. In addition to founding Pawsitive Hearts, she is currently studying criminal justice and working toward a career in animal law! I hope to be able to recommend her practice someday.
Pickens County
Pickens County information is from Bridget Crepps, office admin at Extension (which seems to collaborate closely with the Commission in Pickens County, e.g., calls to the Commission are answered by Extension staff). Bridget said that the County has no shelter, no AC, and lots of stray dogs. (We also spoke about § 3-1-5.) Bridget was not aware of any contract with a vet, and adding that the County has only a single vet (West Alabama Animal Hospital).
Pike County
Source: Brayton Hughes, admin assistant at the Commission (334-566-6374), on Apr. 29, 2025. Brayton stated that the Pike Animal Shelter (Fb) is funded by the County. She did not know whether the shelter is operated by the City or a nonprofit; she thought the Commission funds the shelter with a yearly payment. Employees are not hired directly. Brayton stated that the County has one ACO who works out of the SO.
My previous call was to Pike Animal Shelter (Fb) (334-674-2422). A representative said that the shelter serves only the City of Pike; SO also impounds, but she did not know where those dogs were taken. Brayton said that was incorrect, as described above.
Randolph County
An Apr. 25, 2025 email from April Smith, director of operations at Randolph County Animal Shelter, stated that the County has no animal control. The shelter is a contracted nonprofit, according to the FAQ.
The Commission tel went to vm on Apr. 28. On Apr. 29, Vanessa Burnside, secretary at the Commission, confirmed that the shelter is a contracted nonprofit organization that is funded by the Commission with a consistent amount each month plus a percentage of the tobacco tax. Vanessa also confirmed that there is no AC in the County. (256-357-4980 x3)
Russell County
On an Apr. 29, 2025 call to Russell County Phenix City Animal Shelter (334-291-4847 x3), I was told that the shelter serves both County and City. The staff member did not know who operated the shelter; but did say that her paycheck is issued by Phenix City. The shelter maintains a 7-day stray hold, she said. Pets are not sterilized prior to adoption; adopters sign a contract and are given a voucher. She did not know whether census data is prepared. She said the County and City each have one ACO who brings in impounded animals. She would not provide her name or title and took my information for her supervisor, Mr. Daniels, to call me.
St. Clair County
Source: Nikki Major, AP/AR Accounting at the Commission, on an Apr. 29, 2025 phone call. Nikki stated that the County contributes to Pell City Animal Control Center for sheltering. She said the facility is operated by Pell City, and that the County and City each have one ACO.
(In early Apr. 2025, Pell City and WBRC reported that GBHS had taken over operations of Pell City Animal Control Center.)
Shelby County
Source: Saundra Ivey, executive director, Shelby County Humane Society (205-669-3916 x2016), on Apr. 29, 2025. Shelby Humane is a 501c3 with county and municipal contracts. Stray hold is 7 days, then ownership is transferred to the nonprofit. Sterilization is done by several contracted vets including the Irondale clinic, Saundra said. Ownership is never transferred prior to sterilization. They tried a foster-to-adopt program, but adopters usually did not bring the animal back, Saundra said, so now they keep all animals in the shelter until they are 12 weeks old. Census data is published on the website and is up to date. AC is directly under the County Commission; 7 officers are assigned to specific areas (3 for Columbiana, 1 in Alabaster, 2 in Hoover, 1 in Pelham) and Shelby Humane is the intake facility for all areas. Saundra also spoke of needing a new building and asked about good shelter designs; I emailed information provided by Aubrey Kavanaugh. (Bravo to SCHS for having public hours on weekday evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays, and for the very cool Hiking Buddy program!)
Sumter County
I called the Commission (205-652-2731) on Apr. 29, 2025 after search results suggested that there is no shelter in the Sumter County. The representative stated that the County has no shelter, no vet contract, and no AC, and hung up when I asked for her name as the source of that information. A second representative told me to call the SO when I asked her name. I left a vm at the SO (205-652-7984). On a Mar. 25 call related to the Sumter County § 3-1-5 research, Kameka, dispatcher at the SO, had said the county does not have a “dogcatcher.”
Talladega County
Source: Jennifer Lacey, secretary at the Commission (256-362-1357), on an Apr. 29, 2025 phone call. Jennifer stated that the County has a contract with the Sylacauga Animal Shelter (Fb), which is run directly by the City, and that Talladega County has no AC. (Talladega AC has a contract with the City only, as learned during Talladega County § 3-1-5 research.)
Tallapoosa County
Source: Embirly Collum, Chief Probate Clerk at the Commission (256-825-4268), on Apr. 29, 2025. Tallapoosa County does not have a shelter or contract; however the County does provide some support to Lake Martin Animal Shelter (aka Lake Martin HS, 256-234-5533) in Alexander City. Embirly said there is no formal arrangement; the organization simply requests funds and the Commission chooses how much to provide. There is no AC in the unincorporated area. Embirly said that the Commission has been “trying to do something” to improve the AC situation for 1.5–2 years; more info at Tallapoosa County § 3-1-5 notes.
I then called Lake Martin Animal Shelter to discern whether the County substantially supports the shelter. Kim took my information so that a Board member can call me. On May 7, I spoke with Kim again to discern whether the HS is functioning as an impounding facility for the county. Kim said that they are contracted with Alexander City and have no agreement with the county. They accept from the county only if space allows. They have on occasion taken county animals that are involved in court cases, but again, such a situation is not contracted or mandated in anyway, and they do not accept any animal that is reported to have bit an animal within 14 days.
Tuscaloosa County
Source: Amanda, executive secretary at the Commission office (205-464-8212). Amanda said that Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter (205-752-9101) is funded by the County and the cities of Northport and Tuscaloosa. She did not know whether it is a nonprofit, but did know that the Commission does not run it. AC is through the SO, Amanda said. There is one ACO for the County.
Walker County
Source: Manager of Walker County Animal Services (205-754-4143); he declined to provide his name. He said the shelter is a nonprofit organization that contracts with the County only. The shelter follows a 7-day stray hold. Sterilization is the responsibility of the adopter; a certificate is included with adoption. He stated that data is prepared and “some is online,” though I do not see anything on the Walker County website. He said the SO has a “cruelty and welfare” office, but there is no County AC.
Washington County
Source: On a May 5, 2025 call, Commissioner Allen Bailey (251-847-2208) said that the County does have a shelter or pound called Washington County Animal Shelter. The shelter has no website, no Fb page, and no phone number due to the rural location, Allen said. The shelter is run directly by the County. Two municipalities are contracted and the Commission is working on contracting with a third. Previously, there was a nonprofit shelter or animal organization but the people running it decided they did not want to contract with the county. Allen did not know whether a stray hold was honored or whether data is prepared. He did not know whether animals are being offered for adoption: the nonprofit used to do that, Allen said, but the current situation is unclear. As for AC, Allen said, “We’re looking for an officer now,” adding that it is hard to find someone reliable. He said that the future ACO will work directly for the Commission, rather than the SO.
Previous calls: On Apr. 29, the Commission representative did not know and said an unknown person would call. On Apr. 30, a different representative was also unaware whether there is a shelter, and did not know who I should talk to, so I asked for Commissioner Bailey, based on our § 3-1-5 conversation last month. She said she would give him my tel. On May 1, Commissioner Bailey was not in. The payroll clerk who answered the phone did not know whether the County funds a shelter; she took my info for the accounts payable person.
Wilcox County
Source: Demetria Scott, county administrator at the Commission (334-682-9112), on Apr. 29, 2025. Demetria said the county has no shelter, no vet contract, and no AC.
Winston County
Source: Angela at Winston County Commission (205-489-5026), on Apr. 29, 2025. Angela stated that Winston County does supply funding to Marion-Winston Animal Shelter (see Marion County), and that the County has no AC.