Animal Welfare Program

Public Meetings

News

5/21/2025 - Statement from the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Animal Welfare Program Regarding Ongoing Investigations

Animal Welfare License Plate

The Pine Tree Plate will be replacing the Chickadee Plate starting May 1, 2025. Now is a great time to switch to the Animal Welfare Plate and support the Help Fix ME program. Learn More about Animal Welfare's License Plate

Pet Food Pantries

How to Contact the Animal Welfare Office

To report an animal cruelty or neglect complaint during business hours 8 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday:

Complaints received via email must contain the reporting party’s name and phone number; the name of the animal owner, (if known), a physical address, a description of the animals and the type of complaint.

For an emergency outside of business hours:

Please call the Bangor Barracks of the State Police, 207-973-3700, and they will contact an Animal Welfare Program representative.

Animal Control Officer Contacts

Support the Animal Welfare Program

Support Animal Welfare License Plate

AWP license plate

The proceeds from the Support Animal Welfare specialty plate will be equally distributed between the Animal Welfare Auxiliary Fund and the Companion Animal Sterilization Fund.

Donations

Help fight animal cruelty and pet overpopulation in the State of Maine by making a donation online!

Donate to Fight Animal Abuse

Income Tax Form Check Off

Make a voluntary contribution to Maine's Companion Animal Sterilization Fund on your income tax return. On your Maine State Tax Form, check the box called The Companion Animal Sterilization Fund.

The fund will be used to save lives by:

  • spaying/neutering cats and dogs
  • preventing unwanted litters
  • lowering shelter intakes
  • lowering shelter euthanasia
  • reducing the number of feral cats
  • reducing dog bites