Wild Animals and Stray Cat Trapping

Trapping Cats

Animal Control will set live traps on the property of the complainant. Traps are only set when the temperature is above freezing and there is not a threat to the cat. Trapping generally occurs between the months of March and October.

Due to the high volume of requests for this service, there may be a delay for a trap to be set. Contact Animal Control at 563.589.4185 to be put on the trapping list.

Citizen Owned Traps

Citizens may also set live traps on their property for the capture of not only dogs and cats but also wild life such as raccoons, groundhogs, opossums, squirrels and skunks. Private traps are the responsibility of the owner. Citizens are responsible for the humane and proper handling of any animal (including skunks or other wildlife) that get into traps.  It is required that all traps have the owner's name and address attached to it.

Citizens who trap cats or dogs may take them to the Dubuque Humane Society at no charge. Wildlife must be released unharmed and on private property, with permission from the property owner. It is suggested that all wildlife be taken a minimum of 10 miles from the property they were trapped on to ensure that they do not return. Animal Control does not pick up privately trapped animals.

Wildlife

Animal Control doesnot set traps for nuisance wildlife.

Citizens needing nuisance wildlife removed from their property may trap it themselves or hire licensed animal trappers for a fee.

Wild Animal Trappers

  • Rick Bradley, IDNR Permit - 563.495.1839
  • Jeff Burger, IDNR Permit - 563.542.4583 
  • Ed Dunckel, IDNR Permit - 563-581.0038
  • Joe Frederick, IDNR Permit - 563.451.8274

Fox & Coyote Information

Information on Fox and Coyote

Bear Sightings and BearWise Basics