Animal Control
About Us
The Animal Control Division joined the Riley County Police Department in January of 2026. Animal Control's goal is to protect the health and safety of Riley County from dangers and nuisances caused by threatening and/or stray animals through the enforcement of city and state laws. Animal Control is also committed to promoting humane, proper care and responsible pet ownership through education and other resources.
RCPD Animal Control serves all of Riley County, which includes the cities of Manhattan, Ogden, Riley, Randolph and Leonardville. Animal Control continues to maintain its partnership with Prairie Paws Animal Shelter in Manhattan.
RCPD Animal Control, 1001 S. Seth Child Road, Manhattan, KS (785) 537-2112, Ext. 0
Click here to email RCPD Animal Control with questions or concerns
Prairie Paws Animal Shelter, 605 Levee Drive, Manhattan, KS (785) 587-2783
Pet Licensing
It is unlawful for any person to keep or harbor any dog or cat over six months of age within the City of Manhattan, unless such dog or cat is vaccinated and licensed. Licenses can be purchased online or in person at the Prairie Paws Animal Shelter any time during business hours. Click here to register online.
Wildlife
For answers and tips about how to handle nuisance wildlife problems, please visit the Humane Society of the United States website for Wildlife Management Solutions. For a list of licensed wildlife damage control permit holders, visit the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website.
If you encounter sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife, please visit the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website for information on what you should do and for a list of licensed Kansas wildlife rehabilitators.
You may also contact RCPD Animal Control by calling our non-emergency number, (785) 537-2112, Ext. 0.
Deceased Animals
Animal Control officers may be called to assist with deceased wild and domestic animals on public property, sidewalks and roadways. Deceased animals can be reported to Animal Control by contacting the RCPD non-emergency line at (785) 537-2112, Ext. 0. Pet cremation services may be offered at local veterinary clinics and the K-State Veterinary Hospital.
Trap Spay/Neuter & Release
Manhattan also has feral cat colonies and volunteer groups that provide Trap Spay/Neuter and Release (TNR).
For more information about TNR resources, please call Prairie Paws at (785) 587-2783.