Cambridge Animal Commission

The Cambridge Animal Commission is the city department responsible for animal control and animal welfare in Cambridge. Its work combines education and enforcement to keep the city safe for people, pets and other animals. Day-to-day duties include rescuing sick or injured domestic animals and wildlife, enforcing state laws and city ordinances about animals, and licensing every dog in the city, while encouraging responsible pet ownership.

The commission also points residents to outside help, publishing lists of 24-hour emergency veterinary hospitals, low-cost vet services, spay and neuter programs, and pet food pick-up locations. It established the Helen K. Holland Animal Care Trust Fund, named for a longtime city employee devoted to humane causes, which pays for emergency veterinary care for stray animals. Information on off-leash dogs in city parks and on adoption, surrender and fostering is also available.

What to Know

• An annual low-cost rabies vaccination clinic for dogs is held each April.
• Dog licenses can be purchased at the rabies clinic.
• The commission does not provide temporary or foster care, but refers owners to the ARL and MSPCA.
• Donations to the Holland trust fund are accepted.