Get a Dog License and Vaccinations for Your Pets

All dogs and cats owned by residents who live in the unincorporated areas of Sedgwick County must be vaccinated and dogs must wear a tag indicating compliance with the county's animal code.  Residents can obtain a dog license in one of three ways listed below.

1. Obtaining a Sedgwick County Dog License from a Veterinarian

A. Complete the information below on the Sedgwick County dog license form at the veterinarian’s office.

                                (1) The dog's physical description;

                             (2) The date that the rabies vaccination was given as it appears on the vaccination certificate;

                                (3) The metallic vaccination tag number;

                                (4) The owner's name, address and telephone number;

B. Your veterinarian can take the payment for your dog’s license and send your information to Sedgwick County Animal Control to be processed.

OR

C. Your veterinarian may choose to send the license home with you. If you receive the license, mail a copy of the provided license form and appropriate payment amount to:

                Sedgwick County Animal Control

                1015 W. Stillwell

                Wichita, KS 67213

2. Obtaining a Sedgwick County Dog License from Sedgwick County Animal Control

A. You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader to fill out the form online or you will have to print and mail in to the address       below. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can click on the link below.

                Download Adobe Acrobat Reader Here!!!!

B. Click the link below to the online Sedgwick County Animal Control Dog License Application Form and follow the provided directions.

Fillable Dog License Application Form!!!

If you mail payment, make the check or money order payable to S.C.A.C.

Sedgwick County Animal Control also accepts payment via debit and credit card (through phone call or in-person only).

If you are not able to submit the form online or through the mail you can contact Sedgwick County Animal Control directly for more assistance at (316) 660-7070 or you can reach us by email at animalcontrol@sedgwick.gov.       

3. Licensing of dogs previously determined, declared or adjudged dangerous or vicious.

 The owner of any dog which has previously been determined, declared, or adjudged dangerous or vicious by the director or by any other authorized person in another jurisdiction as provided in section 5-162 of the Sedgwick County code shall be required to obtain the animal's license directly from Animal Control (USING THE FILLABLE DOG LICENSE APPLICATION ABOVE) and cannot purchase a license from a veterinarian. In addition, the owner shall be required to provide at the time of making application for such license either:

                (1) Proof of homeowner's, renter's or other insurance acknowledging the ownership of a dangerous or vicious animal and demonstrating that such animal's subsequent acts are insured by such policy and with such policy listing the Sedgwick County Animal Control Department as an entity to be notified ten (10) days in advance if the policy is cancelled for any reason; or

                (2) A surety bond in the amount of three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000.00) written to cover any acts of such animal, which bond shall list the Sedgwick County Animal Control Department as an entity to be notified ten (10) days in advance if the surety bond is cancelled for any reason.

(Either of these documents must be emailed to Animal Control or seen in person by an Officer/Supervisor prior to approval of the license application)

Sedgwick County Dog License Fees

(ALL INFORMATION ABOVE IS REFENCED FROM SEDGWICK COUNTY CODE OF ORDINACES IN CHAPTER 5 ARTICLE III.)

Rabies in Sedgwick County

In the Midwest, skunks and bats are the main sources and the most common animal species positive for rabies. Domestic pets and livestock can be infected from exposure to these wildlife sources of rabies.

The risk of exposure to rabies is real, but the disease is preventable in both humans and domestic animals. Rabies prevention consists of vaccinating domestic animals, education of humans to avoid exposures, and providing exposed persons with prompt post-exposure rabies prophylaxis. Vaccinate your dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle and sheep through your local veterinarian.

Rabies: Facts and Details

What is rabies?

Rabies is a contagious disease found in mammals caused by the rabies virus.

How common is rabies?

Many wild and domestic mammals can have rabies. Skunks and bats are the most common animals to have rabies in Kansas. Rabbits, mice, rats, squirrels, opossums, and chipmunks are rarely infected, and their bites rarely call for treatment.

Human rabies cases are rare in the United States. The last human rabies case in Kansas was in 1968.

How do people become infected?

People usually get rabies from the bite of a rabid animal. In rare cases, people can get rabies through a non-bite exposure (e.g., scratch) or by coming into contact with infectious material from a rabid animal (e.g., saliva getting into eyes, nose, mouth, or open wound). Petting a rabid animal or contact with the blood, urine, or feces (poop) of a rabid animal is not considered exposure.

What are the signs and symptoms of rabies in humans?

Once someone with rabies begins experiencing these symptoms, they usually do not survive. For this reason, contact a healthcare provider right away if any animal bites you, especially a wild animal. The first symptoms include fever or headache. This quickly changes to nervous system symptoms, such as inability to sleep, uneasiness, confusion, slight or partial loss of muscle function, hallucinations (seeing things that are not real), agitation, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, and fear of water.

How long can rabies be spread?

After exposure, symptoms may show in several weeks or up to years (average one to three months). Both humans and animals are contagious as soon as they show symptoms until their death.

How is rabies treated?

There is no treatment for rabies. Exposed people can receive “post-exposure prophylaxis” which is a series of one dose of immune globulin and four doses of rabies vaccine over a 14 day period.

How can you prevent rabies?

The best way to prevent rabies is to vaccinate pets. Sedgwick County ordinances require all dogs, cats, and ferrets to have current rabies vaccinations, it is also highly recommended that livestock is also vaccinated for rabies. This protects your pets and also protects you. Other steps to prevent illness include:

• Supervise your pets to avoid contact with wild animals.

Contact Sedgwick County Animal Control if:

• You or your pet is bitten by a stray or wild animal, and report the bite to your local animal control department immediately.
• There are stray animals running loose in your neighbor-hood.
• If you live within the City of Wichita, contact Wichita Animal Services at 316-350-3360.
• If you live outside Wichita in Sedgwick County, contact Sedgwick County Animal Control at 316-660-7070.
• Avoid contact with unfamiliar animals.
• Teach children not to handle or pet unfamiliar animals wild or domesticated, even if they appear friendly.
• If you wake up and a bat is present inside your home, even if there is no evidence of a bite or scratch, seek medical attention.

Contact Animal Control

Report an Animal Issue

Animal Control varies by where you live. Check the chart below to identify whom to contact for animal issues. If you live outside a city limit or in an area of Sedgwick County not listed below, Sedgwick County Animal Control can help you find the correct resource (email animalcontrol@sedgwick.gov or call 316-660-7070).

Adrienne Byrne, MS
Director

p: 316.660.7070
Toll Free: 800.527.0709
f: 316.383.7553
EMERGENCY: 9-1-1

1015 W. Stillwell
Wichita, KS 67213

Email Animal Control

Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.
Call 9-1-1 for emergency response outside of office hours.

SEDGWICK COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL STAFF

   Animal Control Supervisor Nika Orebaugh

    Senior Animal Control Officer Earl Jones

    Animal Control Officer Mitchell Waegener

     Animal Control Officer Dina Ingram

     Animal Control Officer Chris Andrews

      Animal Contrrol Officer Dakota Kidd

Pet Care

Dog and Cat Breeds

While breeds don't necessarily make the dog or cat, they can tell us a lot about what to expect in appearance, behavior and other characteristics. It's important to do a little research before you adopt a new pet into your family.

Research Dog Breeds

Research Cat Breeds

Caring for Your Pet

Vaccinations and Licenses

These are a must-have to keep your pet healthy and in compliance with Sedgwick County code.

Watch the Weather

Animals often are more resilient to changing weather, but extreme weather affects them as much as it affects their owners.

When temperatures rise:

·         Bring your pets inside – if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pets, especially pets with thick fur. Just imagine wearing a fur coat during the summer – uncomfortable and dangerous!

·         Provide plenty of fresh water – if you wouldn’t drink it, your pets shouldn’t either.

·         Make sure your pets have access to a shaded area and limit their time spent outdoors.

When temperatures fall:

·         Bring your pets inside – even animals with thick coats can freeze in cold weather. If your pet is shivering, it’s too cold for him/her.

·         A dog house should be insulated, adequate bedding provided, and the opening should face south to avoid the cold northern winds blowing inside.

·         Make sure your pet’s water isn’t frozen.

Fences, Houses and Chains

Animals need room to roam and a safe place to sleep. Do your fences, houses and chains meet these guidelines?

Fences

·         Dogs must remain on leashes or in fenced yards when outdoors.

·         Dogs should not be able to jump over fences or squeeze through openings.

Houses

·         Insulated houses, especially in the winter, are important for your dog.

·         Splinters, jagged edges, exposed nails and holes should be repaired.

·         Bedding should be washed regularly and kept dry.

·         Place the house in a shaded area in the summer and point the opening so the wind does not blow in (usually south) in the winter.

Chains

·         Only use chains, ropes or other materials to "tie up" your pet temporarily and when you are nearby. Do not tie up your dog (or any pet) as a permanent means of detainment.

·         Allow 10 or more feet in chain or rope to let your dog move around easily.

·         Make sure the chain or rope is an appropriate size – if it’s too heavy, it can harm your pet.

·         Make sure your dog can’t get caught on a fence, deck or other obstruction that might cause harm.

·         Make sure your dog can reach shade, water and protection from the weather.

Get more tips about caring for pets, including food, exercise, grooming, pet supplies and training.

Animal Control Advisory Board

Animal Control Advisory Board

This board works diligently in cooperation with Sedgwick County Animal Control to recommend updates and changes to the Sedgwick County code that reflect the current interests and values of its citizens.  The advisory board is comprised of animal advocates living within Sedgwick County and meets regularly in an effort to stay up-to-date with Animal Control’s operations and progress in the community.  Board members are expected to stay apprised of animal-related issues in their area and work to advocate for their represented citizens so a cross-section of voices in Sedgwick County can be heard and their opinions considered in any changes to code or operations. 

Current Members

Regularly scheduled Advisory Board meetings are held the second Thursday of every month from 6:15 to 8:00 p.m. and are open to public attendance.  Meetings may be cancelled or dates changed as deemed necessary by the board.  Please monitor this site for upcoming dates and agendas and WebEx participation directions as COVID-19 restrictions are in place due to size of available meeting rooms.   

2021 Meetings 

·         October 14, 2021 - Agenda/Minutes

·         September 9, 2021 - Agenda/Minutes

·         August 12, 2021 - Agenda/Minutes

·         July 8, 2021 - Agenda/Minutes

·         May 13, 2021 - Agenda/Minutes

·         April 8, 2021 - Agenda/Minutes

·         February 11, 2021 - Agenda/Minutes

·         January 14, 2021 - Agenda/Minutes

2020 Meetings

·         October 8, 2020 - Agenda/Minutes

·         September 10, 2020 - Agenda/Minutes

·         August 13, 2020 - Agenda/Minutes

·         July 9, 2020 - Agenda/Minutes

·         June 11, 2020 - Agenda/Minutes

·         March 12, 2020 - Agenda/Minutes

·         January 9, 2020 - Agenda/Minutes

2019 Meetings

·         September 12, 2019 - Agenda/Minutes

·         November 14, 2019 - Agenda/Minutes

Brindle and White Boxer Mix ‘Max’

Animal ID #A143824

Pet of the Week Information

I don’t understand what’s happening….

Max is a young, playful and loving boxer mix. Max landed at the shelter through no fault of his own. His owner wasn’t physically able to care for him anymore.

Max passed all his adoption tests with flying colors. He has previously lived with another dog. When it came to dog-to-dog testing, Max just wanted to engage and play!

Because the Humane Society has reached capacity, Max was unable to transfer to the adoption floor. With his deadline date rapidly approaching, Max’s only chance is for a caring person like you to take a chance on direct adoption of this beautiful boy. 

Will you be the one to give Max a forever home?  If so, please see the directions below to direct adopt this wonderful soul through the Kansas Humane Society.

_______________________________________________________________________________

DIRECT ADOPT INSTRUCTIONS: dog adoptions through the Kansas Humane Society are $180 - includes neuter, microchip, basic vaccinations (excludes rabies), heartworm test, exam, etc. To place a hold, contact the KHS admissions department in person (if local) or call (316) 524-9196 x207 (if not local). If no answer, leave a message stating you want to adopt a dog at the animal shelter; include the animal number of the dog you are interested in AND a return phone number. Allow 24 hours for a response. Repeated calls and messages delay response time. Once a hold is placed, pick-up is scheduled through KHS within a few days -- no same-day pickups!

RESCUE TAG INSTRUCTIONS: email the Kansas Humane Society rescue coordinator at rescue@kshumane.org with questions or to tag this dog. Any licensed rescue in ANY state can pull this dog. Please allow 24 hours for a response. 

***Note: This dog is NOT in our care, it is at the Wichita, KS Animal Shelter, a city-run shelter.  Sedgwick County contracts with the Wichita Animal Shelter, but we have NO staff at the shelter. ***

Fluffy is too old for this…

‘Fluffy’ – Black-and-White Long-haired Male – A143843

Fluffy is an older gentleman who ended up at the shelter through no fault of his own. Fluffy’s owner found himself unable to care for his cats due to circumstances beyond his control. So he reached out to Sedgwick County Animal Control for help. 

Fluffy loves string toys! He previously lived with six other cats is reported to be litter-box trained. Fluffy’s brothers were moved to the humane society adoption floor. Despite his friendly attitude, there was no room on the adoption floor for Fluffy.

The stress of the shelter is beginning to get to Fluffy. He has become defensive in his kennel, and his stress level has made it impossible for him get out of the shelter without a direct adopter. 

With Fluffy’s deadline date approaching, Sedgwick County Animal Control is looking for a direct adopter like you. Will you be the caring person who helps this older boy out of this confusing situation?

If you are interested in adopting Fluffy, please follow the directions below and reach out to the Kansas Humane Society today! 

—————————————————————

★ WICHITA ANIMAL SHELTER★ 

Address: 3303 N Hillside

Wichita, KS

Phone: (316) 524-9196 ext 207

Email: rescue@kshumane.org (RESCUES ONLY FOR EMAILS)

DIRECTIONS TO ADOPT:

Direct Adopter:

**LOCAL- 

Direct adopters who live in close proximity of Wichita, KS, need to go in person to the Kansas Humane Society, which is next door to the shelter. 

**OUT OF TOWN-

If you live out of town or state, please call (316) 524-9196 ext 207 to place a hold. If there is no answer, please leave a message so your call can be returned. We request that you remain persistent to place a hold on an animal on this page.

**The direct-adoption hold fee is $50. This fee includes neutered/spay, microchip, dewormer, basic immunizations and flea/tick medicine. Cats younger than six months are subject to an additional $25 at pickup.

Cats/kittens must be OVER 2 lbs. and free of any infections diseases, per the Kansas Board of Agriculture.

***Note: This cat is NOT in our care, it is at the Wichita, KS Animal Shelter, a city-run shelter. Sedgwick County contracts with the Wichita Animal Shelter, but we have NO staff at the shelter. ***

Sedgwick County Animal Control relies on animal rescue groups and their dedicated animal foster families to save the many lives of the animals at the Wichita Animal Shelter and other holding facilities. We work tirelessly to promote all these animals so that they can find loving new homes. Unfortunatley we are running out of space to hold them. The animal community is in desperate need of foster families and with your help we will be able to save even more animals in need. If you want to apply to be a foster family for these special animals, please see the list of rescue groups and links below to inquire and apply to foster with the individual groups.

Animal Rescue Links for fostering:

1.       Always and Furever (The little Red Barn)

Forms – Always and Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary

2.       Beauties and Beasts

Foster a Dog or Cat in Wichita, KS | Beauties and Beasts

3.       Big Hearts 4 Little Paws (Cats ONLY)

Save The Kitties - Cat & Kitten Rescue Derby, Kansas (savethekittiesks.org)

Above Address and Use the ‘contact us’ button to inquire about fostering or find them on Facebook

4.       Heartstrings

| Shelterluv

5.        Joy Rescue Mission

https://www.facebook.com/JoyAnimalRescue/

6.       Kansas Humane Society (KHS)

Foster Pets | Kansas Humane Society | Animal Shelter (kshumane.org)

7.       Lifeline Area Pet Placement (LAPP)

Become a Volunteer – Lifeline Animal Placement

8.       PALS

Fostering - PALS Animal Rescue, Inc. (palsrescue.org)

9.       We Are Grateful Sanctuary (WAGS)

Foster - We Are Grateful Sanctuary (weebly.com)

10.   Wichita Animal Action League (WAAL)

Foster | Wichita Animal Action League | Wichita Kansas (waalrescue.org)

Sedgwick County Animal Control relies on animal rescue groups and their dedicated animal foster families to save the many lives of the animals at the Wichita Animal Shelter and other holding facilities. We work tirelessly to promote all these animals so that they can find loving new homes. Unfortunatley we are running out of space to hold them. The animal community is in desperate need of foster families and with your help we will be able to save even more animals in need. If you want to apply to be a foster family for these special animals, please see the list of rescue groups and links below to inquire and apply to foster with the individual groups.

Animal Rescue Links for fostering:

1.       Always and Furever (The little Red Barn)

Forms – Always and Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary

2.       Beauties and Beasts

Foster a Dog or Cat in Wichita, KS | Beauties and Beasts

3.       Big Hearts 4 Little Paws (Cats ONLY)

Save The Kitties - Cat & Kitten Rescue Derby, Kansas (savethekittiesks.org)

Above Address and Use the ‘contact us’ button to inquire about fostering or find them on Facebook

4.       Heartstrings

| Shelterluv

5.        Joy Rescue Mission

https://www.facebook.com/JoyAnimalRescue/

6.       Kansas Humane Society (KHS)

Foster Pets | Kansas Humane Society | Animal Shelter (kshumane.org)

7.       Lifeline Area Pet Placement (LAPP)

Become a Volunteer – Lifeline Animal Placement

8.       PALS

Fostering - PALS Animal Rescue, Inc. (palsrescue.org)

9.       We Are Grateful Sanctuary (WAGS)

Foster - We Are Grateful Sanctuary (weebly.com)

10.   Wichita Animal Action League (WAAL)

Foster | Wichita Animal Action League | Wichita Kansas (waalrescue.org)