Overview

The Office of Veterinary Public Health promotes the health and welfare of companion animals and promotes responsible pet care.

The Office of Veterinary Public Health provides assistance to municipal governments and local health departments regarding the laws and rules addressing animal control, animal facility licensing and sanitary rules, dog licensing, and the training of Animal Control Officers (ACOs). Veterinary Public Health is part of the Infectious and Zoonotic Disease Program of the New Jersey Department of Health. 

For rabies information and resources, visit the CDS rabies page.

Report Animal Cruelty

Pursuant to the provisions of P.L. 2017, CHAPTER 189 b. The New Jersey Department of Health shall post the following on its website:

  • The full text of R.S. 4:22-17 and 4:22-26 and a plain language description of the provisions and requirements of R.S. 4:22-17 and 4:22-26

These materials shall be distributed by the municipality to each person obtaining an annual dog license and be posted on all New Jersey municipality websites.

The full text of the statutes and the plain language description of the provisions and requirements are posted here:

 

The New Jersey Department of Health does not have the authority to investigate animal cruelty.

 

IMPORTANT NOTICE - Beginning in February 1, 2019, animal cruelty investigations shall be conducted by Humane Law Enforcement Officers (HLEOs) that report to county prosecutors.

If you suspect animal cruelty or abuse after February 1, 2019, contact your County Prosecutors Office or local police for assistance.

To report animal cruelty or abuse involving livestock (including horses, cattle and poultry), contact the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Health by calling 609-671-6400 or via email: state.veterinarian@ag.nj.gov.

Contact Us

The Office of Veterinary Public Health
Infectious and Zoonotic Disease Program
New Jersey Department of Health

Phone: 609-826-4872 or 609-826-5964
Fax: 609-826-4874

OVPH Palm Card

Reporting Requirements

Inspection Reports

The New Jersey Department of Health provides technical assistance to local health departments throughout the State and in some cases may jointly inspect facilities with local health department staff.  These reports are available for review.

Learn More

Last Reviewed: 10/24/2023