Animal Control
Kevin Farnsworth: Chief Animal Control Officer
24 Hour Answering Service (781) 477-7080
Public safety is the primary concern of the Dog Officer. Both domestic and wild animals can present a public health or safety hazard. You should contact the Dog Officer for any questions or complaints regarding domestic or wild animals. The Dog Officer does not get involved with the trapping of animals or insect problems.
Transport/Trapping: The transport or trapping of wild animals is illegal without a license from Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife. Contact a licensed Pest Control company for assistance with trapping.
Bite/Attack: If you are attacked / bitten by any Animal, wash the effected area with an antibacterial soap and contact your physician or outpatient facility to obtain proper testing and treatment. Contact the Animal Control Officer to report the incident and the location of the animal involved.
If your domestic pet is involved in an altercation with any wildlife, please contact the dog officer immediately.
Lost/Missing Pets: If your pet is lost/missing you should contact the North Shore Animal Hospital at (781) 596-0510.
Dog Licensing: The City of Lynn requires that all Dogs be licensed. Licenses must be renewed April 1 of each year. In order to obtain a License you must provide proof to the City that your Dog has had the required Rabies Vaccines. There is a fee of $ 4.00 for a Dog license. An un-spayed female Dog license is $7.00. Dog Licenses are issued at the City Clerks office.
Rabies Vaccines: Rabies Vaccines are required for licensing a Dog in the City of Lynn. Rabies Vaccines are also required for Cats but a license is not required. Vaccines can be obtained from your Veterinarian. The City may also announce time and places were Rabies Vaccines can be obtained for a reduced cost, usually in the spring.
Leash Law: No owner or keeper of any dog shall permit such dog to run at large within the City of Lynn at any time on any day or night in the year. Said dog shall be restrained by being kept indoors or in a yard sufficiently and safely enclosed or on a leash. A fine of Twenty-Five Dollars ($25.00) shall be assessed for the first offense and Fifty Dollars ($50.00) for each subsequent offense. Dogs are not allowed in Pine Grove Cemetery per City Ordinance; owners will be fined up to $200 for violation of this ordinance.
Spaying / Neutering: Through the Lynn Dog Officer, the North Shore Animal Hospital (1 Neptune BLVD. Lynn) offers discount coupons for the spaying/neutering of your pet. Also, Implanted identification chips are offered for your pet. For more information, please call the Dog Officer.