Animal Control

The Town of Hanover does not have a specific individual assigned to the role of animal control officer. The members of the Police Department Patrol Division handle many situations related to animal control; for other situations we refer to our partners at New Hampshire Fish + Game.

Warnings When Dealing With Animals

We would caution people against having contact with animals that are not their own, even if they appear to be tame or someone's pet. While well-intentioned you may be placing yourself at serious risk when attempting to catch or control a stray animal. Stray animals may not have current vaccinations and while they may seem very friendly they may suddenly turn violent once you have them restrained. If you witness a stray dog please note the animal's description and location and report this to the Police Department. Do not attempt to capture or detain stray animals.

We would also remind residents that the bear population is growing and we are dealing with more cases of bears in garages, backyards, and even on porches and decks to get to trash containers or bird feeders. Please keep trash cleaned up and in a secure container and remove bird and other feeders that may attract bears to your property. 

  1. Domestic
  2. Wild
  3. Nuisance
  4. Bears

Reports of lost pets are routinely received and logged by the dispatch center in the event that a Patrol Officer happens to see the animal.

The Town of Hanover does not have a "leash law" requiring dogs to be on a leash when off their owner's property. Owners should however have control of their animals to prevent them from becoming a nuisance. This could be accomplished with voice commands or other means.

When a report of a stray dog is received an Officer is dispatched to the area to attempt to locate the dog. If the owner can be identified we attempt to reunite the owner and pet. If the owner can not be identified the animal is transported to the Upper Valley Humane Society in Enfield, NH. They can be reached at 603-448-MUTT.

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