If You Encounter Sick or Injured Wildlife

First, make sure you are safe.  Do not approach the animal.  A sick or injured animal may run away, but it may also feel threatened if you approach and fight.

If left alone, the animal may leave the area. 
If it does not, call the Mayor’s Action line at 3-1-1 (645-3111) if you are within Columbus city limits.

Animal Threats

If an animal poses an immediate threat to pets or people, contact Franklin County Department of Animal Care and Control at (614)462-3400, the Columbus Public Health veterinarian at (614)645-6748 or call 3-1-1 (645-3111).

Reporting Animal Bites or Scratches

To report an animal bite or scratch, call the Franklin County Department of Animal Care and Control at (614)462-3400 or Columbus Public Health at (614)645-7288.

Removing Wildlife on Private Property

In Columbus, a property owner has the right to remove or kill wildlife that is on their property, as long as it does not violate federal or state laws concerning some animals.

If you are unsure, call 3-1-1 or the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife at (614)644-3925. You cannot, however, fire a weapon in the city of Columbus. 

When the animal is on public property, the police or sheriff may need to dispose of a suffering animal in some cases.

Trapping or moving an animal may be an option. Raccoons, however, cannot be moved in Ohio unless they are then taken to an approved wildlife rehabilitator (a professional who cares for sick, injured, and orphaned wild animals so they can ultimately be returned to their natural habitats).

Again, call 3-1-1 if you have questions or contact a local pest control/removal company.

Dead Animals

Do not handle dead animals. Contact the city’s Refuse Department at 3-1-1 (645-3111) for removal.