Vernon Township Animal Control enforces all state and local regulations related to the animal population in the township. It is responsible for enforcement of animal ordinances, rabies control, capture of sick or injured animals, confinement of lost pets, quarantines, dog bites and adoptions. It also maintains the animal shelter, issues dog licenses and holds rabies clinics. Personnel are on twenty-four hour emergency call through the Vernon Township Police Department for animal bites, injured, sick or stray animals, as well as bats found within the living area of the house.

• Dog Adoption Application
• Cat Adoption Application
• Animal Surrender Form and Resources

Licensing

Important Notice of Dog License Payments

• Online Credit/Debit Card Payments Are Non-Refundable.
• A valid rabies vaccination is required to obtain a dog license. The vaccination must not expire before November 1st. Failure to meet this requirement will result in your application being denied.  New Jersey Statute  N.J.A.C. 8:23A-4.3.
• You may email a valid rabies certificate or waiver form to animalcontrol@vernonpolice.com. Waiver forms and rabies certificates must be issued by a licensed veterinarian.

License Delivery & Metal Tag Policy:

• If you pay online or by mailing a check, your license will be mailed to you.
• If your license is lost in the mail, it remains valid, but a replacement metal tag will not be issued.
• Each metal tag is uniquely linked to a specific license and is strictly accounted for.
• If preferred, you may contact Animal Control to request that your license be held at the shelter for pickup instead of being mailed.

Make Payment for Animal Licensing - Township of Vernon Police, NJ Online Payments

Hours

• Monday and Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Tuesday through Thursday 8:30 am - 2:30 pm
• Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

Adoptions by appointment only

Donations

The animal shelter accepts and welcomes donations of items for the animals such as cat food (wet and dry), dog food (wet and dry), kitty litter and towels, blankets, or sheets. All donations can be dropped off directly at the Vernon Township Animal Shelter. Thank you!

• Guide to Prevention of Animal Cruelty Laws 
• Animal Cruelty Statutes and Penalties