Animal Control

If your pet has been impounded and is wearing tags, you may reclaim it within three (3) days by:

• Providing proof of ownership to Animal Control.
• Obtaining a current City license (for dogs or cats) if you are a Michigan City resident.
• Paying a $50 redemption fee at the time of pickup. $100.00 for each subsequent redemption.
• If the animal is darted by the animal control authority as part of the impoundment process, the fee is $50.00 for each darting.
• Daily pet storage fee: $10.00

All dogs and cats over six months old within Michigan City must be licensed annually. To obtain a license, submit a completed application and payment to the Michigan City Police Department Records Division. Licensing your pet helps ensure their safety and promotes responsible pet ownership in our community.

• License Fee: $10.00
• License Period: Licenses are valid January 1 – December 31.
• Prorated Fee: Pets newly requiring licensing between July 1 and December 31 will pay half-price.
• Rabies Vaccination: Proof of up-to-date rabies vaccination from a licensed veterinarian is required.
• Where to Obtain a License: Issued under the City Controller’s Office at designated locations and times.

The Animal Control Service impounds hundreds of animals each year. Their care and well-being while in our custody is a top priority to the Michigan City Police Department. Only through the generous support of civilian volunteers are we able to provide comfort and care above the most very basic needs for all of the animals that enter our kennel. Please consider becoming a kennel volunteer by completing the Volunteer Application or making a donation to support operations at the Animal Control Service Kennel.

Located behind the Michigan City Police Department, Cleveland Park is dog-friendly and open to the public. Dogs must remain on a leash and have a City-issued license.

LaPorte County Bark Parks – Off-Leash Dog Areas
Fully fenced parks where dogs can run, play, and enjoy agility-style activities.

Locations:

• Bluhm County Park – 3855 S. 1100 W., Westville (3 acres)
• Creek Ridge County Park – 7943 W. 400 N., Michigan City (3.25 acres)
• Luhr County Park – 3178 S. 150 W., LaPorte (1 acre)
• Small Animal Shelter – 2855 W. State Rd. 2, LaPorte (1 acre)

Fees (Paid On-Site):

• Daily: $3 per dog (LaPorte County) / $4 per dog (Out of County)
• Annual: $30 for first dog (LaPorte County) / $40 for first dog (Out of County)
  • $10 for each additional dog

Registration & Permit Required:
Owners must carry their permit while visiting. Fees support park maintenance and the Small Animal Shelter.

Michiana Humane Society

• Address: 722 Indiana Highway 212, Michigan City, IN 46360
• Phone: (219) 872-4499
• Toll-Free: (888) 426-4435

La Porte County Animal Shelter

• Address: 2852 W State Road 2, La Porte, IN 46350
• Phone: (219) 362-2525 or (219) 324-9407

Frieds Cat Shelter

• Address: 509 Indiana Highway 212, Michigan City, IN 46360
• Phone: (219) 874-6932
• Toll-Free: (800) 321-7387

NOTE: Do not bring any cats to the shelter without making prior arrangements. The shelter is full and cannot isolate any stray cats. Space availability is on a first-come first-served basis, and you must call before showing up to make sure we can accept the cat.