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1. What should I do with issues involving bees, other insects, or rodents?

Contact a local pest control company for those type of issues.

2. Where can I find information about the City ordinances relating to animals?

Ordinances that pertain to the regulation of animals can be found in Chapter 2 of the City Code.

3. As a resident in the City limits of Odessa how many pets may I have?

Within the City limits you are allowed to have a total of 4 pets. For example: 2 dogs and 2 cats, or any combination of dogs or cats not exceeding 4 total.

4. If I live outside of City limits what are the regulations for animal pets in the County?

For citizens that live outside the City limits of the Animal Shelter, contact the Ector County Sheriff’s Office by calling 432-335-3050 for more information on dogs and cats.

5. If I have an animal emergency after hours, where do I call?

Please call 911.  

6. Do I need a permit to sell animals in a public place, for example dogs and cats?

Yes, you need a permit. It is a violation of City ordinance to sell animals in a public place without a permit.

7. Where do I get a permit to sell animals?

A permit may be obtained at City Hall in the City Permits and License Department.

8. If I adopt a cat or dog do I need to get it spayed or neutered?

All pets adopted from the Odessa Police Animal Shelter will be spayed or neutered per City ordinance unless the animal is too young at the time of adoption and a contract will be administered. Failure to comply will result in a citation.

9. What can I do if I have a problem with stray cats or wildlife, for example a skunk?

For any domesticated animal, such as a dog or cat, or wildlife such as skunks or foxes, please contact the Animal Control dispatch:

• Any complaints that occur within the City limits will need to be directed to 432-333-3641, opt 8 for Animal Control Officers 
• All complaints that occur within the Ector County limits will need to be directed to 432-335-3535 for Animal Control Officers 

Cat or wildlife traps are not available to be distributed to the public. Animal Control will not set traps in inclement weather, over weekends, or on holidays.

10. How long will my dog or cat be held if it gets impounded?

Dogs and cats that are not identified as having an owner are held for 3 days. Dogs and cats that have been identified as having an owner will be held for 10 days. After the holding period has concluded animals may be placed up for adoption, released to rescue, or humanely euthanized.

11. Can I call the Animal Shelter to check if my dog or cat was impounded?

No, per policy the shelter can not describe animals over the phone. You are welcome to come into the Animal Shelter as often as you like, during business hours, to look for your pet. For more information on how to contact the Animal Shelter, or to review their business hours, visit the Animal Shelter page.

12. What can I do if I have a barking dog complaint?

Notify the Odessa Police Department at 432-333-3641, opt 8 of the location of the barking dog and an officer will go to that location and speak with the owners of the dog.