Animal control is a municipal service responsible for enforcing bylaws related to pets and wildlife within a community. Animal control officers respond to complaints about barking dogs, loose animals, wildlife encounters, and dangerous animals. They operate shelters for lost or stray pets, enforce licensing requirements, investigate animal cruelty reports, and help reunite lost pets with owners. Most municipalities have bylaws governing the number of pets residents can own, leash requirements, and prohibited animal types. Animal control balances public safety concerns with animal welfare while helping residents coexist with both domestic and wild animals.