Animal Control

As the Town of Meredith does not have a designated Animal Control Officer, the MPD takes on that roll. The Police Department and the Town Clerk's office work in conjunction to ensure that all state RSAs governing animal control issues and subsequent fines are followed.

Dog licenses are issued by the Office of the Town Clerk. 

We kindly remind both residents and visitors alike that it is better to leave a collar and tags on your dog. The tag allows us to get him home faster. Also, we would like to encourage residents to get to know your neighborhood pets. We often respond to someone's house for a stray dog that turns out to be from two houses down, not two towns away.

There also seems to be questions and/or concerns regarding the true implications of the leash law. In truth, a dog doesn't have to be on a physical leash, but has to respond and act to its owner and/or guardian as though it is. A "leash" can be a physical leash or control of the dog's action(s) by way of voice command, clicker control, whistle command, hand signals, electronic collar, etc. The only dogs that do not have to be on a physical leash at all are classified as working dogs, e.g. herding or hunting dogs.

Please be advised that we do not catch or set traps for feral cats. If you have taken in a feral cat, it is now your responsibility whether you decide to keep it or bring it to a local shelter for placement. The Town of Meredith does have a current contract with the NH Humane Society located on Meredith Center Road in Laconia to accept strays and surrenders from town residents. Additionally, there are several great shelters within the state that can assist questions and/or recommendations.

MPD also has to deal with livestock and wildlife. Regarding wildlife issues, we work with the NH Fish and Game Department. Both MPD and NH Fish and Game are well aware of bear, fox, and coyote issues in town. We would remind residents and visitors to keep trash locked up until removed to the transfer station and avoid intentional contact.

If you have other wildlife questions and/or concerns, visit the NH Fish and Game website or call 603-271-3421.