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1. Do you need any volunteers?

The Toms River Animal Shelter is always looking for an extra hand to help care for the animals. To volunteer you must at least 18-years-old and complete all requirements on application, which can be filled out at the facility. Duties include dog walking, inside cat care, and inside/outside cleaning. After your application is reviewed, you will be contacted by the volunteer coordinator.

2. Can you spay/neuter my pet at a low cost?

We do not have a vet on staff; therefore we cannot provide this service. However, we can refer to East Coast Spay and Neuter Clinic in Toms River. Please contact the facility at 732-929-9449 for both prices and directions.

Northern Ocean County Animal Facility in Jackson also offers periodic low-cost clinics. Please contact the facility at 732-657-8086 to for low-cost clinic dates and directions.

3. What do I do if I lost my pet?

If you should lose your pet, act quickly. Call all local shelters and veterinarians and post signs as soon as possible. When you call the shelters, you can file a lost report or visit the shelters in person since it is often difficult to describe most animals over the phone.

Remember to license your pets and keep collar tags on them for immediate identification in the case they are lost. If your pet has been turned in to our shelter, the licensed owner will be charged a $35 impound fee.

4. Where do I get my pet licensed?

Residents must register their pet at Toms River Board of Health, located in Town Hall. Please be aware since 1991, Toms River Township has required all cats and dogs be licensed like many other municipalities. Cats and dogs require a current rabies shot to be licensed.

This licensing protects you, your friends and family, and your pet. For further information, call the Toms River Board of Health at 732-341-1000, ext. 8400 during township business hours.

5. Are you accepting donations?

Donations are always welcome. Visit our Wish List page to see how you can donate.

6. What is the process in giving my pet up to the shelter?

An appointment is mandatory for the relinquishment of animals. Pets are only accepted from Toms River Township residents. A fee of $50 is required per animal.

Please take into consideration when your elderly pet can no longer be taken care of, the kindest thing an owner can do is take it to your local veterinarian since being in a shelter is traumatic both a unhealthy for young animals and unbearable for senior pets.

7. Can township officials remove wildlife from residential yards?

Toms River Animal Control can only remove sick or injured wildlife that has bit a human or domestic animal . We do not handle nesting wildlife in or around residential homes. For this service, a licensed wildlife removal service will need to be contacted. 

You can contact the facility at 732-341-1000, ext. 8450 for a reference. Please remember this is a paid service.