Animal Control Debuts 311-Style Phone Service for Pet Owners

NEW YORK — New York's furry friends have their own city help line.

Animal Care & Control announced the debut of a new 311-like program for pets and other animals in the city Monday morning, complete with a new hotline and redesigned website to help animal lovers navigate services ranging from pet adoptions to house training tips.

“We want to make it easier for the community to better understand our services so that together, we can better serve the animals of New York City,” said Julie Bank, executive director at AC&C, in a release about the newly polished program.

“Improving how we communicate and share information with the public is one of our priorities."

The new service includes information about what to do with sick or injured animals, or what to do when you find a stray. The information is offered in Spanish and English.

The phone line also recommends what to do for lost pets, and offers tips on housetraining, behavior and medical concerns.

"The AC&C mission is to promote and protect the health, safety and welfare of people and pets in New York City," an automated voice says on the phone service.

The NYC 311 website also links to the new Animal Care & Control website to give news and information about pet adoptions, foster programs, partner organizations, and educational resources.

The program is funded by both the city and private donations.

The new phone system and direct phone number for AC&C is (212) 788-4000.