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1. What number do I call if I need a Humane Enforcement Deputy to respond?

Please call the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office at 912-754-3449. A dispatcher will assist you with your problem and will notify a Humane Enforcement Deputy, who will respond to your home or incident location. In the event of an emergency, dial 911.

2. What hours do Humane Enforcement Deputies work?

Humane Enforcement Deputies are on duty Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

3. What if I have an animal problem on the weekend or after hours on a weekday?

You still need to call the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office at 912-754-3449. If it is the weekend or after-hours on a weekday, the dispatcher will send a Patrol Deputy to respond. Then, if the Patrol Deputy determines that a Humane Enforcement Deputy is needed, he or she will notify dispatch.

4. What do I do if my pet becomes lost?

If your pet is missing, you can visit or call the Effingham County Animal Shelter at 307 Highway 119 North, Springfield, to see if your pet was brought in by Humane Enforcement Deputies.

5. Does my pet have to be on a leash?

Yes. Any time your pet is off of your personal property, it must be on a physical restraining device such as a leash.

6. Am I required to register my pet with the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office?

No. Your rabies tag on your dog or cat serves as your registration. Rabies tags must be current, obtained from a licensed veterinarian and displayed on your pet at all times.

7. What should I do if I find a lost or stray animal?

If you find a lost or stray animal you can turn it in to the Effingham County Animal Shelter at 307 Highway 119 North, Springfield, or you can call the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office at 912-754-3449 and a Humane Enforcement Deputy will come to your home to pick it up.