Animal Services

Responsibilities

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services is comprised of one full time Animal Control Deputy (ACD) whose mission is to care for the community’s concerns about domestic animals. The primary duties of the Animal Control Deputy are to enforce the local and state laws regarding domestic animals and their ownership within unincorporated Jefferson County. Domestic animal issues within the city limits of Port Townsend are currently handled by the Port Townsend Police Department. Wild animals are considered the property of the state of Washington and any issue involving wild animals falls upon the jurisdiction of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
Animal Services Truck
The Animal Control Deputy is typically on duty during weekday business hours. After hours and on weekends Deputy Sheriffs, when available, are tasked with the ACD’s duties in a limited capacity. The Sheriff’s Office does not operate a shelter or kennel, instead they work together with the Jefferson County Humane Society which operates the animal shelter in Port Townsend.

Local Agencies

The following check list will help assist you in contacting the appropriate local agency:
  • For issues/questions regarding domestic animals in the city limits of Port Townsend please contact the Port Townsend Police Department by phone at 360-385-2322
  • For issues/questions regarding any wild animals please visit the WDFW website or call 360-249-4628.
  • For issues/questions regarding domestic animals in unincorporated Jefferson County please contact the Sheriff’s Office at 360-385-3831.
  • For any emergency situations please call 911.