Did you know that the Westfield DCO and Northern Chautauqua Canine Rescue, Inc. are two entirely separate entities? It’s true! The Dog Control Officer (DCO) and the town of Westfield are responsible for picking up stray dogs, and they maintain full responsibility for all stray dogs until the mandatory “stray hold” period ends. Only then are unclaimed stray dogs transferred into the official custody of NCCR and made available for adoption. While dogs wait for their stray hold period to end, NCCR provides a roof over their heads, food, and day to day care for them, but has no authority to make any decisions regarding their release if an owner comes forward to claim them. If your dog is picked up as a stray, you will need to provide proof of up to date rabies vaccination, as well as a current dog license, to the DCO before you can take your dog home again. With rabies spreading in New York State (a fatal viral infection – you don’t want to play around with this one!), don’t wait – vaccinate! And if you haven’t already, get your dog licensed & microchipped. It’s the easiest & safest way to ensure that your lost dog finds his way back to you.