Frequently Asked Questions

If you are unable to find the answer to your question(s) here in FAQ or elsewhere on our web site, please feel free to contact us.

What are the fees?

Please see the Shelter Fee List.  (Shelter fees may change per Commission approval. The most recent fees were adopted in September 2023)

How long does the shelter keep an animal before euthanizing?

GFAS does not euthanize a domestic animal due to the length of time the animal is in the shelter.  Many factors are involved before the difficult decision is made.  In most cases we only euthanize if the animal is dangerous or aggressive, the animal has been involved in a bite case, the animal is feral, the animal is sick with an illness that is not treatable using reasonable resources, or if the animal is deemed unadoptable in some other way. 

How long does the shelter keep a stray domestic animal before adopting it?

GFAS will hold a stray domestic animal that arrives to the shelter with no identification and no known owner for a minimum of 72 hours before it is assessed and deemed adoptable.  If the stray domestic animal arrives to the shelter with some form of identification, we make many attempts to contact a possible owner.  If after 96 hours, no one has claimed the animal we will assess the said animal for adoptability.

Where can an owner register (license) a dog or cat?

An owner of a dog or cat may purchase a license at the City of Great Falls Shelter, Maclean-Cameron Animal Adoption Center, or participating local veterinarians.

When do I need to register my puppy or kitten?

The puppy or kitten can be licensed as early as the owner wishes to purchase a license, but must be licensed no later than four (4) months of age.  

Do I have to register my service animal?

Yes.  Service animals must be licensed, but there is no fee to license a certified service animal.

Do I have to register my therapy/companion/medical dog or cat?

Yes.  These animals must be licensed, and all licensing fees apply.

I’m not eighteen; can I register a dog or a cat?

No.  If you are not yet eighteen, a parent or guardian who is over eighteen must co-sign your registration.

If I give my dog to my relatives across town, do they have to re-register?

Yes.  Registrations for animals, like cars, are non transferable.

How do I apply for a Multiple Animal Permit?

You must pay a fee based on the number of animals you wish to have and fill out a permit application at the Great Falls Animal Shelter.  If you fail to get the permit and have more than the allowed number of animals, you could be subject to a fine of up to $500 and could also be ordered to surrender your animals to Animal Control.  Contact the Great Falls Police Department at 406-455-8492 (Dial 0 for Dispatch - Do not leave a message unless it is just a general question) to speak with an Animal Control Officer.

My dog/cat is pregnant.  Do I need to take any special action for the litter being born?

A Hobby Breeder's Permit must be purchased from GFAS within ten (10) days after the birth of the litter. This is required regardless if the puppies/kittens are being sold or given away.  

I want to board animals as a full time business; what do I need to do?

You would be required to obtain a commercial kennel license through the Great Falls Planning and Development Department. 

My animal was picked up and taken to the Shelter. How much will I have to pay to recover it?

The redemption fees are covered in the Shelter Fee List.

Where do I go to learn more about animals in the City of Great Falls?

The City Code, Title 6 includes information on Animals. Chapter 1 (Animals) includes the city's rules and regulations/codes regarding animals and Chapter 2 has information on bees. You can also find more information on the Great Falls Police Department Animal Control or the Animal Ordinance FAQ website. 

Are donations I make to the Great Falls Animal Shelter tax deductible?

Yes! Cash and in-kind donations to our organization are tax deductible. Our Tax ID is 81-6001269. All donations stay here at the Shelter. We are considered a municipal shelter, or a governmental agency/unit; donations are deductible under the IRS code 170(c). All donations stay within our organization and help us fund for the care of sheltered animals, assist in adoption costs or shelter improvements.

Animal Ordinance FAQ Information last updated: June 2022