How Sumter County Animal Services Handles Stray and Injured Animal Calls

Sumter County Animal Services (SCAS) responds daily to reports of stray, confined, roaming, and injured animals throughout the county. Understanding how these calls are prioritized helps residents know what to expect and how they can assist in ensuring the quickest and safest outcome for both the animal and the community.

1. Confined Strays (Higher Priority Calls)

A confined stray is a stray animal that has been safely captured or is confined to a small area—such as a fenced yard, garage, porch, or enclosed business space—where it cannot escape.

Because confined animals may be stressed, scared, or overheated, these calls are handled as a higher priority by Animal Control Officers. Officers respond as quickly as possible to secure and identify the animal.

If you have safely confined a stray animal:

• Keep it in a secure, shaded, and quiet area away from your own pets and children.
• Avoid handling the animal unnecessarily, as fear can cause defensive behavior.
• Contact SCAS to report the confined stray and request pickup.
• You also have the option to bring the animal directly to the SCAS shelter during open hours.

Hours of operation

2. Roaming Strays (Standard Priority Calls)

A roaming stray refers to an animal that is seen in an area but not confined—for example, a dog wandering through a neighborhood or a cat crossing yards. These animals are mobile and can leave the area at any moment.

While SCAS strives to respond promptly, roaming stray calls are handled as officers become available, after higher priority situations are addressed (such as confined, injured, or dangerous animals).

It’s important to note that most stray pets with homes are found within one mile of their residence.

To help reunite these animals faster:

• Take clear photos of the animal from a safe distance.
• Share the photos on local social media pages, neighborhood apps, or lost and found pet groups.
• Include the location, date, and time last seen.
• If possible, ask nearby neighbors if they recognize the pet.

Many pets return home within hours when the community helps network them online before an Animal Services officer arrives.

3. Sick or Injured Animals (Urgent Response)

If an animal appears visibly sick or injured, SCAS treats this as an urgent call.
Officers will respond quickly to assess the animal’s condition and provide medical assistance as permitted and needed under Florida law.

If the animal is later identified as owned, the owner may be responsible for medical or impound fees at the time of reunification.

Examples of urgent conditions include:

• Visible bleeding or broken limbs
• Lethargy, disorientation, or inability to stand
• Heavy respiratory distress or bloating
• Obvious signs of pain or trauma

Residents should avoid attempting to handle injured animals directly, as pain or fear can cause unpredictable reactions. Instead, stay nearby, keep the animal visible, and contact SCAS immediately.

4. Traffic Hazards and Public Safety Concerns (Emergent Calls)

Any animal creating a traffic hazard on a major roadway is considered an emergent call.
In these cases, Animal Control Officers respond as quickly as possible to protect both the animal and the motoring public.
If you witness an animal in the roadway:

• Do not attempt to stop traffic or approach the animal yourself.
• Move safely to the shoulder and call SCAS or the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line for immediate assistance.

Our Shared Mission

SCAS prioritizes calls based on public safety, animal welfare, and urgency.
By understanding the differences between confined strays, roaming animals, and emergency situations, residents can play a vital role in helping ensure that lost, injured, or endangered pets receive the fastest possible care and chance at reunification.

For more information or to report a stray animal, please visit the contact information page.