Montrose County Sheriff’s Office
1200 N. Grand Avenue
Montrose, CO 81401
Non-emergency dispatch: 970-249-9110
General information: 970-252-4023
Montrose Animal Shelter
3383 N. Townsend Avenue
Montrose, CO 81401
Phone: 970-240-1487
Public Hours of Operation
M – F – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sat – 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Sun – Closed
About Us
Montrose County – Animal Control operates under the authority of the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office. Our Animal Control Officers enforce all applicable county ordinances, along with relevant state and federal laws pertaining to animal welfare and public safety.
Montrose County Sheriff’s Office – Animal Control services are provided only to unincorporated areas of Montrose County.
If you reside within the city limits of Montrose, please contact the Montrose Police Department Animal Services at 970-240-1487.
Services & Enforcement – Montrose County – Animal Control is responsible for:
- Reuniting lost pets with their owners
- Enforcing Montrose County animal control ordinances
- Investigating animal cruelty and neglect
- Responding to reports involving dangerous or vicious dogs
- Providing community education and support regarding animal welfare
Responsible Pet Ownership
We encourage residents to promote animal well-being through responsible pet ownership, including proper containment, veterinary care, and behavior management.
Common Animal Control Services (Unincorporated Montrose County only):
- Enforcing dog control
- Addressing barking and dangerous dog complaints
- Monitoring rabies vaccination compliance and overseeing quarantine procedures for bite incidents
- Removing deceased animals from public roadways and spaces
Frequent Animal-Related Concerns
Cruelty / Neglect
Owners must provide food, clean water, adequate shelter, exercise, and necessary veterinary care.
Dog under Control
- Under physical control via leash or tether,
- The animal is physically restrained in a pen, fencing, or a vehicle, or
- The animal is accompanied by a person to whom it immediately responds via commands
Barking
Habitual, persistent barking that disturbs neighbors is prohibited.
Bite Reporting
Any animal bite that breaks the skin must be reported. The animal will be quarantined for 10 days for rabies monitoring.
Cats
Cats are considered free-roaming. However, rabies vaccinations are required, and nuisance cats may be humanely trapped.
Why Spay or Neuter Your Pet?
Spaying or neutering is a routine, safe procedure that prevents unwanted litters, improves your pet’s health, and can reduce behavioral issues such as aggression or roaming.
Seasonal Pet Care Tips
Cold Weather
- Provide dry, elevated shelter with bedding and wind protection
- Bring pets indoors if temperatures fall below 20°F (or 40°F for small, short-haired animals or puppies)
- Use heated water bowls to prevent freezing
Hot Weather
- Exercise pets in the early morning or late in the evening
- Always provide shade and fresh water
- Never leave pets unattended in a vehicle; interior temperatures can reach 160°F within minutes
Dogs in vehicles
- Leaving a pet in a hot car is a misdemeanor under Colorado law
- Always provide ventilation by leaving windows open
- As outside temperatures rise, leave pets at home unless they can accompany you indoors
- Transporting dogs unsecured in pickup beds is dangerous; use a ventilated, secure kennel if possible
dogs at large
A “dog at large” is off its owner’s property, not under control, and without the dog owner in sight.
Risks:
- Traffic accidents, wildlife encounters, fines, and impoundment
Penalties:
- Classified as a petty offense; fines increase with repeated violations
Barking complaints
Habitual, persistent barking that disrupts the community could result in fines or a court summons.
Common Causes of Habitual, Persistent Barking:
- Boredom
- Weather-related
- No food or water
- Loneliness / Fear
- Lack of stimulation
- Being left chained up or confined for extended periods
Solutions:
- Provide daily needs, exercise, and engagement
- Address specific causes of barking
- Use positive reinforcement training or consult with a professional
- Enroll in dog daycare or hire a dog walker
contact information
Montrose County Sheriff’s Office – Animal Control: 970-249-9110
Email: cfunes@montrosecounty.net
Note: After-hours Animal Control responses are dispatched to on-duty Sheriff’s deputies.
