The Animal Control Officer responds to calls regarding animals running at large in the city of Worthington and surrounding areas. He/she enforces the City ordinances that apply to animals and recommends cases of neglect, abuse and animal mistreatment for prosecution.

The Animal Control Officer and the City make a strong effort to place all viable animals in caring homes and euthanize as few animals as possible. The City promotes the humane treatment of the animal population by encouraging responsible pet ownership and by prosecuting those who neglect or abuse their pets.

The City of Worthington now requires dog and cat owners to purchase a license for their pet. The 2024-25 licenses are available at the Worthington Police Department and the Veterinary Medical Center for a cost of $20 for spayed or neutered pets and $30 for non-spayed or neutered pets. Proof of a current rabies vaccination is needed at time of purchase. The new license is required by February 1, 2024 to prevent a citation.

If you would like to report an animal running at large, report a neglected or abused animal, or want to learn more about pet adoption call the Prairie Justice Center at (507) 372-8430.