Michigan City Animal Control reports steady intake; large share of animals returned or transferred to partner shelters

Michigan City Animal Control presented intake and outcome figures at the Sept. 24 meeting, showing substantial year‑to‑date activity and a heavy workload for patrol officers.

For January–March 2025 the board reviewed totals of 81 dogs, 29 cats and one other animal. Of the 81 dogs, 48 were returned to owners; partner placements included Michigan Humane Society (6), La Porte County Small Animal Shelter (6), and Lakeshore Paws (16). Two dogs were fostered and one dog was euthanized for aggression or by court order. Of 29 cats, 15 were transferred to the Michigan Humane Society, eight to the La Porte County Small Animal Shelter, one was euthanized due to injury and five were found deceased. One rabbit was fostered.

For April–June 2025 the board reviewed 80 dogs, 32 cats and two other animals. Of the 80 dogs, 42 were returned to owners; partner placements included Chaney Humane Society (15), La Porte County Small Animal Shelter (4) and Lakeshore Paws (8). Three dogs were euthanized due to injury, one for aggression and six were found deceased. Of 32 cats, two were returned to owners; partner transfers included Chaney Humane Society (10), La Porte County Small Animal Shelter (5) and a local cat shelter listed as "Freed's" (7); one cat was euthanized due to injury and seven were found deceased.

Board members noted the kennel had been emptied earlier in the year but is full again and praised the three animal patrol officers for handling a continued heavy caseload year‑round. In response to a board question, staff said the most common reason animals were "found deceased" is vehicle strikes or unknown causes; the department photographs and scans animals for microchips in case an owner can be identified.

No policy changes were adopted. The board thanked staff and said it will continue monitoring intake and placement metrics at future meetings.