Nuisance & Stray Animal Concerns

The City of Worthington occasionally receives questions from residents about nuisance, stray animals or other pests. While the City does not provide animal control services, we do want to provide resources and information to help you if animals or pests become a nuisance or health concern.

Stray dogs and other animals


Dogs and other pets are not permitted to run at large and must be under the control of their owner at all times according to City Ordinance. If you need assistance with stray animals, you may contact Franklin County Animal Control by calling (614) 525-3400 24 hours a day.

Dead animal removal


If a dead animal is in the City right-of-way such as a street, City service crews can remove and dispose of the animal. The Worthington Department of Service & Engineering can be called Monday-Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at (614) 431-2425.

If the animal is on private property (in your yard, driveway, sidewalk or home) you must perform the removal yourself or contact a private company. Search for pest control companies online or access a county-by-county list of nuisance control trappers via the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.

Nuisance wildlife


Sometimes the proximity of wildlife, such as racoons, skunks and opossums, to people's homes can cause problems. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has a number of excellent resources to help residents prevent wildlife from coming onto their property and to help control wildlife if it becomes a nuisance. Follow the ODNR link to download the Uninvited House Guests publication, as well as a list of nuisance control companies and other helpful tips.

Deer and many other species of wildlife can also cause issues for some residents. Please see the links below to download brochures or other information about combating issues with these animals.