Regional animal control Essex, Chester, Deep River, Westbrook

Our Mission

The mission of Regional Animal Control — serving Essex, Chester, Deep River, and Westbrook — is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of both animals and the communities we serve through compassionate care, professional enforcement, education, and responsible animal welfare practices.

We are committed to providing humane and respectful treatment to every animal that comes into our care while enforcing Connecticut animal control laws fairly, consistently, and professionally. Through investigation, emergency response, community education, responsible adoption, and collaboration with municipal departments, law enforcement, veterinary professionals, trainers, rescues, and other community partners, we work to promote responsible pet ownership and strengthen the relationship between people and animals.

Our responsibility extends beyond the walls of the shelter. We strive to be a trusted resource for our four towns—responding when animals or residents need assistance, educating the public before problems arise, advocating for animals that cannot advocate for themselves, and working toward safe and appropriate outcomes for every situation.

Compassion. Protection. Education. Service.

Four towns. One mission. A safer community for people and animals