Since Mayor Daniel Rodrick closed the Toms River Animal Shelter on June 6, 2024, residents and surrounding towns who counted on Toms River Animal Control, have resorted to calling 911 for Animal Control Services. With only 1 Animal Control Officer, Dave Matthews, the Toms River Police Department have responded to 218 calls in 33 days (June 6 to July 9) and only until recently has Toms River’s website changed to call (732) 349-0150; the main number at the Toms River Police Department. In reviewing the data from an OPRA request, the Police in Toms River average about 230 calls per day for traffic stops, heat related injuries, accidents, noise complaints, disorderly, EMS, to name a few, they did not need to take the burden of Mayor Rodrick’s lack of planning and poor execution.
Until further notice, if you have an Animal Control issue, call (732) 349-0150.