City of Gatesville Animal Control
Helping pets live their best lives—and helping people be the best pet parents.
Dogs and cats bring joy, companionship, protection, and personality into our homes. In return, they rely on us for care, structure, and safety. Being a responsible pet owner helps prevent problems like unwanted litters, injuries, and strays while keeping pets healthy and happy.
Pet Care Basics
Spay or Neuter Your Pet
Helps pets live longer, healthier lives and reduces roaming, fighting, and pet overpopulation.
Train & Socialize
Training helps reduce unwanted behaviors and allows pets to safely interact with people and other animals.
Use a Leash in Public
Leashes help protect your pet, other animals, and the community while complying with local laws.
Keep Vaccinations Current
Vaccinations, including rabies, help protect both pets and people from serious diseases.
What Responsible Pet Ownership Looks Like
- Providing lifelong care or ensuring a safe transition if needed
- Choosing pets that fit your home and lifestyle
- Keeping up with veterinary visits and preventive care
- Feeding a proper diet and providing clean water daily
- Ensuring pets have identification such as tags or microchips
- Following local leash, licensing, and vaccination laws
- Providing exercise, enrichment, and attention
- Planning ahead for emergencies or travel
Why It Matters
Pets are part of the family. They reduce stress, offer companionship, and improve quality of life. In return, they depend on us to make responsible choices that keep them safe and healthy.
Good pet care also benefits the entire community by reducing stray populations, preventing injuries, and helping keep neighborhoods cleaner and safer.
Helpful Resources & Educational Links
Explore additional pet safety, health, ownership, and animal welfare resources from trusted organizations and agencies.
Texas Department of Health & Human Services
Information and guidance related to pet ownership, zoonotic diseases, safety, and public health.
- Pet Entry Requirements
- Pet Safety Tips
- Animal Bites
- Overpopulation
- Pet Care
- Wildlife as Pets
- Animals in Disasters
HumanePro
Educational articles and resources related to animal welfare, care, behavior, and public policy.
- Cats & Dogs
- Equine & Wildlife
- Rabbits & Small Animals
- Cruelty & Neglect
- Laws & Public Policies
- Breed Discrimination
- Pet-Inclusive Housing
American Veterinary Medical Association
Trusted veterinary guidance and pet care information for responsible pet ownership.
- Pet Ownership Guidelines
- Spaying & Neutering
- Pets & Disasters
- Preventive Care
- Pet Medications
- Holiday Safety
- Keeping Pets Healthy & Safe
American Humane Society
Resources focused on pet ownership, pet health, emergency planning, and family education.
- Preparing for Pet Ownership
- Pet Health & Safety
- Pet Loss & Grief
- Emergency Planning
- Children's Resources