Here in the Town of Thompson, we are lucky that our four-legged friends are under the watchful eye of Dog Control Officer Nancy Marinchak. When dogs get loose or lost, Nancy is responsible for finding them – and keeping them safe. Learn more about what Nancy and the Dog Control department are doing for our community.
Q) How long have you been the Town Dog Control Officer?
A) I’ve been in this position since 1999, so I have over two decades of experience as a dog control officer. I estimate I’ve picked up over 1,500 dogs since then. Each year, the number of dogs I work with decreases– which is a good thing as residents are being more responsible with their dogs. For example, last year, I handled just 45 dogs – while a few years ago, it was closer to 100. I absolutely love my job: both working with animals, and working with the great people at the Town Hall.
Q) Do I need a license for my dog from the Town?
A) Yes! Every resident of the Town of Thompson who owns a dog, must get a license from the Town for each dog. If your dog is spayed or neutered, it’s only $8 per dog. If your dog is not fixed, the fee is $16 per dog. These are annual fees. We also require proof of rabies vaccination before administering your dog license to you.
Q) What should I do if I see a loose dog?
A) Please, don’t approach the dog. Call me right away at 845-796-4237 and let me know the exact location where you spotted the dog and provide a description of the dog as well. I am available 8am-6pm, 7 days a week. Leave a message if it’s outside those hours and I will look for the dog as soon as possible. I have the skills and equipment to safely approach and capture the dog.
Q) What happens to loose dogs that you pick up?
A) I immediately take the dog to the Town kennels, which are heated, secure, and comfortable. The dog will get access to food, water, and medical attention if injured. We will hold the dog for 7 days, and hope that the owner contacts us looking for their dog. If no owner comes forward, we bring the dog to the Middletown Humane Society where it is put up for adoption.
Q) What should I do if my dog gets loose?
A) Call me at 845-796-4237 and I will let you know if I have your dog. To pick up your dog, you are required to pay a $75 seizure fee and provide the Town with proof of current rabies vaccination as well as the dog’s license. If you are not current on the rabies vaccine, you’re required to make an appointment with a veterinarian.
Q) How should I handle a dog that keeps getting loose in my neighborhood or a neighbor’s dog that is constantly barking?
A) These are issues that I can help with. Please contact me and I will provide a formal, verbal warning to the dog’s owner as a first step.
Q) What should I do if I suspect a dog is being abused or neglected?
A) Dogs are required to have access to food, water, and adequate shelter and to be treated humanely. If you see or suspect that someone is neglecting or harming the dog, report this immediately! Animal abuse cases are handled through the Sullivan County Sherriff’s Office and you can also call the State Police and the SPCA to report the incident. There is also a Sullivan County animal abuse registry.
New York State Police: 845-292-6600
Sullivan County Sheriff: 845-794-7100
Sullivan County SPCA: 845-796-3120
Q) What tips do you have for dog owners to help keep their pets from getting loose?
A) The most important thing is to have a dog collar that has a tag with the dog’s name and pet owner’s phone number. Plus, I know that underground fences are popular. Please check the batteries in your dog’s collar at least every 3 months to ensure they are still active.