Frequently Asked Questions

No, Emanuel County does not currently have a leash law. However, we strongly encourage all pet owners to ensure their dogs are properly supervised and contained on their property for the safety of both pets and residents. Keeping dogs secure helps prevent them from wandering, reduces the risk of accidents, and protects local wildlife and livestock. Pet owners are also encouraged to use leashes when walking their dogs in public areas to foster a safe, welcoming environment for everyone in the community. By practicing responsible pet ownership, we can work together to create a harmonious space for all residents—human and animal alike.

If you find a stray dog in Emanuel County, here’s how you can help:

First, check for identification. Look for tags or a collar with contact information. If you find an owner’s contact, reach out directly to reunite the dog.

Next, call the Betty Gambrell Animal Shelter. Their staff will coordinate with code enforcement, if necessary, to bring in the dog.

Then, spread the word. Posting a photo and description on community boards or social media can help alert the owner and speed up reunification.

Above all else, be safe. If the dog seems wary or aggressive, keep a safe distance and leave the situation to the Animal Services professionals.

If your dog goes missing, act quickly to increase the chances of a safe return. Here’s what to do:

Contact the Betty Gambrell Animal Shelter. Call the shelter to report your lost dog. Provide a detailed description, including breed, color, size, and any distinguishing marks. Shelter staff will keep an eye out for your dog in case it’s brought in.

Notify code enforcement (if applicable). If you live in a rural area, contacting Emanuel County Code Enforcement can be helpful because they may receive reports of found dogs from the community.

Post on social media and in local groups. Share a recent photo and description of your dog on social media platforms, including the shelter’s and local humane society’s Facebook pages. Many people use these community pages to help reunite lost pets with their owners.

Create posters. Print posters with your dog’s photo, name, and your contact information. Post them around your neighborhood, nearby parks, and any other areas your dog might wander.

Check back regularly. Follow up with the shelter and local animal groups to see if there’s any new information. Staying proactive helps increase the likelihood of reuniting with your pet.

Taking these steps can make a big difference in bringing your dog home safely.

In Emanuel County, animal abandonment and abuse are illegal and taken very seriously. Abandoning or mistreating animals can lead to criminal charges with violators facing substantial fines and, in some cases, jail time. Under Emanuel County code, Code Enforcement serves as the primary contact for cases involving suspected abandonment or abuse. If confirmed, these cases are prosecuted in magistrate court, where penalties are determined according to county, state, and federal laws.

In Georgia, animal cruelty, abandonment, and abuse are punishable offenses. Convictions may result in fines up to $5,000 and prison sentences of up to five years, depending on the severity and circumstances of the abuse. At the federal level, penalties for animal cruelty, particularly under the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act, can include prison time and significant fines, especially in cases of extreme or repeated abuse.

If you suspect a dog is being abandoned or abused:

Contact code enforcement. They are responsible for investigating and, if necessary, writing citations for animal-related offenses. Code Enforcement works closely with the Betty Gambrell Animal Shelter, which provides intake and care for rescued animals.

Document what you see. Take photos or videos of the animal and note any signs of distress. Make sure to provide specific details, such as the exact location, dates, and times of sightings, to help authorities assess and address the situation quickly.

Remember—animals cannot speak up, so it’s vital that concerned citizens do. Reporting suspected cases of abuse or abandonment can make a significant difference and may be a lifeline for an animal in need, so if you see something, say something. By reporting cruelty, you’re helping to uphold Emanuel County’s commitment to the humane treatment of animals and ensuring the protection and safety of those who can’t defend themselves.

Adopting a dog from the Betty Gambrell Animal Shelter is a straightforward process designed to match each dog with a loving, responsible home. Here’s how to get started:

Check Facebook for the latest adoptable dogs. The shelter regularly updates their social media channel with photos and information on dogs currently available for adoption. This can help you get a preview of potential pets before visiting in person.

Pay a visit to the shelter. Stop by the shelter to meet the dogs face-to-face. No appointments necessary! Spending time with them can help you find the right fit for your family and lifestyle.

Complete an adoption application. Once you’ve found a dog you’d like to adopt, you’ll fill out an adoption application. Shelter staff will guide you through the application, which helps ensure you’re prepared for the responsibilities of pet ownership.

The shelter team will then review your application. In some cases, they may follow up with additional questions to confirm a good match for the dog.

Pay the adoption fee. A small adoption fee helps cover the cost of vaccinations, spay/neuter services, and other initial care. This fee ensures your new companion is healthy and ready for a smooth transition to your home. However, the Emanuel County Humane Society occasionally waives adoption fees during special events throughout the year. Announcements are typically posted on the Facebook pages of both the humane society and the shelter, but if you're unsure, ask shelter staff if any fee waivers are currently available. 

Bring your new friend home. Once approved, you can bring your new furry friend home! Shelter staff can offer tips and advice for helping your dog adjust to their new environment.

For more information, feel free to contact the shelter directly. Every adoption makes a difference, giving a shelter dog a second chance at a happy life.

Emanuel County has two local veterinary offices, both offering similar services for pet health and wellness. This information is provided for citizens' convenience only and does not constitute an endorsement of either business. The practices are as follows:

McRae Veterinary Clinic 

Address: 219 Lambs Bridge Rd, Swainsboro, GA 30401

Phone: 478-237-4036

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM; Wednesday, 8 AM to noon; closed on Saturday and Sunday

Swainsboro Animal Hospital

Address: 423 East Main Street, Swainsboro, GA 30401

Phone: 478-419-1236

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5:30 PM; closed on Saturday and Sunday

Other veterinary clinics are available regionally.

Volunteering with Emanuel County’s shelter is a wonderful way to make a positive impact! Both the Betty Gambrell Animal Shelter and the Emanuel County Humane Society welcome volunteers to help with a variety of tasks, including dog walking, cleaning, fostering, and assisting with adoption events. Anyone interested can reach out directly to the shelter for more information on the application process. Specific opportunities may vary based on current needs, so don’t hesitate to ask how you can lend a hand.

Yes, the Betty Gambrell Animal Shelter gladly accepts donations, which go a long way toward supporting the daily care of the dogs. Commonly needed items include dog food, blankets, bedding, toys, cleaning supplies, and leashes. Monetary donations are also welcome and can help cover medical expenses, vaccinations, and other essentials. Check the shelter’s Facebook page or call them for the most up-to-date list of needed items. Thank you for considering a donation. Every contribution helps!

If you encounter wildlife that appears injured, orphaned, or poses a safety concern, it’s best to contact the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. The Betty Gambrell Animal Shelter does not handle wildlife, but DNR can guide you on the appropriate steps to take or connect you with a local expert. If you’re unsure of who to call, code enforcement may also be able to provide guidance. Remember to keep a safe distance from wild animals, as approaching can be dangerous for both you and the animal.

If you’ve been bitten by an animal, it’s important to act quickly to protect your health and comply with local reporting guidelines:

Seek medical attention. Clean the wound immediately with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection, then seek medical attention. Even minor bites should be checked by a healthcare professional to prevent complications.

Contact Emanuel County Code Enforcement or the Betty Gambrell Animal Shelter to report the bite. They will document the incident and, if necessary, investigate the animal’s vaccination history and behavior. Animal bites must be reported to ensure public safety and prevent the spread of diseases like rabies.

When reporting, be prepared to share specific information, including the animal’s description, location, and any known owner information. Photos of the wound and animal (if possible) can help authorities in their investigation.

Authorities may need to follow up to monitor the animal’s health or quarantine it if there’s a risk of rabies. Cooperate with any additional instructions from public health or animal control officials to ensure everyone’s safety.

By reporting the bite and seeking care, you’re taking steps to protect your health and contribute to community safety.