The Sampson County Animal Shelter houses stray, homeless, quarantined, seized, abandoned or unwanted animals. It is operated by Sampson County Local Government in accordance with applicable state laws, local ordinances, and departmental policies and procedures.
It is the holding facility for Sampson County and Clinton City Animal Control for any animal that may be impounded as a stray, surrender, quarantine (rabies exposure or animal bite), or any animal that may be in violation of the Sampson County Animal Control Ordinance(PDF, 2MB) or North Carolina State Statute.
Sampson County wants to protect wild and domesticated animal resources, the public health, the public food supply, the environment, and to ensure the humane care and treatment of animals. The Sampson County Animal Control Ordinance contains rules and regulations regarding pets and animals in Sampson County.
Please be advised that only citizens of Sampson County can drop off animals at the shelter.
Animal Shelter or Animal Control?
It is important for residents to understand the distinction between the Animal Shelter and Animal Control field operations. The Animal Shelter serves as a housing facility for animals brought in by officers or surrendered by the public, but the shelter staff do not dispatch officers or handle field-related calls.
Animal Control Officers are responsible for responding to calls regarding stray animals in the community. However, please note that officers do not pick up "owned animals." Under the policy, if an individual has been providing food or care for an animal, that animal is legally considered to be in their care. In these instances, the caretaker is responsible for managing the animal’s needs.
How to contact Sampson County Animal Shelter?
Call 910-592-8493 and please listen for these two simple options to ensure you get the help you need without delay.
Select Option 1 if you are calling to speak directly with the Shelter Staff. This is for anyone looking to adopt a new pet or for those who need to schedule an appointment to surrender an animal they currently own.
Select Option 2 for all Animal Control field calls. This selection transfers you to our Communications team, who will gather the necessary details about your situation and immediately forward that information to an Animal Control Officer on duty.
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