Public Safety Department
Animal Control
Animal Control Officer (ACO): Kathy Kelsey-Peluso
Phone: 528-8779
Public Safety Office: 664-5651
The primary function of the animal control officer (ACO) is to enforce both the New York State Agricultural & Markets Laws and The City of Mechanicville Ordinances relating to dogs, as well as to ensure the safety of city residents when confronted with diseased or dangerous wildlife and domestic animals (i.e. rabid raccoons, aggressive dogs, etc.) Our office is responsible for investigating bite cases and enforcing quarantine regulations according to public health law. We also do preliminary investigations when allegations are made of animal abuse or neglect.
The Public Safety Office as well as the Animal Control Officer, does not deal with nuisance wildlife complaints (i.e. wildlife which has setup housekeeping in/on residents’ homes, outbuildings or property). These inquiries should be directed to a pest control service specializing in nuisance wildlife removal.
The Animal Control Officer cannot pickup stray cats - New York State Law indicates that cats are ‘free to roam’, therefore we have no legal authority to pickup and transport cats believed to be without owners. However, a resident acting as a "Good Samaritan" in the best interest of the animal(s) may transport the animal to an animal shelter.
New York State Law requires that all dogs 4 months of age or older and resident in the state for more than 30 days be licensed. These licenses must be renewed yearly. The law also requires that the dog’s license tag be firmly attached to the dog’s collar or harness and worn at all times. Licenses may be obtained at the Accounts Office for the following fees: $2.50 for spayed or neutered dogs, $10.50 for "intact" dogs (dogs which are able to breed).
* Proof of current rabies vaccination is required at time of licensing.
* An owner of a spayed/neutered dog needs to provide the certificate of spaying/neutering when licensing the dog.
* If the dog was previously licensed anywhere in New York State, the license number is required.
All animals transported by Mechanicville Animal Control are brought to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter located at 6010 County Farm Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. The phone number is 885-4113, and the shelter is open Mon.-Sat. 10-4, closed Sundays and holidays. The shelter also sponsors rabies vaccination clinics several times each year, and posts pictures of animals available for adoption. For more information click on the following link: