The Animal Control Officer (ACO) is responsible for enforcing all state laws and town ordinances involving domesticated animals in the Town of Portsmouth.  The ACO is also responsible for the pick-up of stray animals and attempting to locate their owners. The ACO works with the Potter League in Middletown, RI, for town licensing and sheltering found domesticated animals until claimed by their owner.  The ACO ensures that dog licenses are renewed every April for the period of May 1^st through April 30^th. When a domestic animal doesn't have a town license or other identification the animal is brought to the Potter Shelter in Middletown until the owner claims it. The animal will only be released after the owner licenses the animal.

The Animal Control Officer can be reached at (401) 643-0136.

Message from the Animal Control Officer

The American Red Cross does not allow pets in their emergency shelters, therefore arrangements need to be made in advance to ensure your pet's safety. The Potter League has a free brochure called: "Disaster Planning for Your Animals," which is available at the Potter League, 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown, RI 02842 or it can be downloaded from the Potter Animal Shelter website. This brochure contains vital information for you and your pet to prepare for a disaster.

You can find pet friendly motels in the area by accessing Petswelcome.

Helpful Hints

Some key points to remember:

• Make sure your animal is wearing up-to-date ID tags.
• Have a current photograph of your pet(s).
• Have veterinary records handy with evidence of up-to-date immunizations.
• Include the name and phone number of your vet.
• Written instructions for feeding, medical, or behavioral problems.
• Don't forget to bring along your pet's favorite toy to reduce stress.
• Remember food, water and medications for the trip.
• Have a plan and if you need to leave the island, leave early. (Consider bridge closings, gas in your vehicle, traffic and travel time.)
• Find a place that will accommodate you and your pet(s). (Make arrangements to stay with family, friends, in a hotel or motel.)
• Keep a check on the weather by using radio, television or newspapers.

Keep in mind that you are on Aquidneck Island and that all three bridges could be closed during a major event. Travel might be restricted when winds originating from directions perpendicular to the bridges are recorded in excess of 58 miles per hour. Closure of the bridges to all traffic will be considered if winds increase to a sustained 69 miles per hour in the above specified directions.

The more advance planning you do, the safer you and your pets will be.