The Selectboard adopted an Animal Control Ordinance on April 15, 2025, under authority of 20 V.S.A. § 3549, 24 V.S.A. §§ 2291 (10), (14), and (15), and 24 V.S.A. Chapter 59. The purpose is to regulate the keeping of dogs and wolf hybrids and to provide for their restraint, impoundment, and destruction, to protect the public health and safety of the Town and preserve the quiet enjoyment of its residents’ homes and properties.

As part of the ordinance adoption process outlined in 24 V.S.A. § 1973, citizens have a right to petition for a vote to disapprove the ordinance. A petition must be signed by not less than five per cent of the qualified voters of the municipality, and presented to the Selectboard or clerk of the municipality within 44 days following the date of adoption of the ordinance by the Selectboard. If a valid petition is submitted, the Selectboard shall call a special town meeting within 60 days from the date of receipt of the petition to determine whether the voters will approve or disapprove the ordinance. If they disapprove, the ordinance will not take effect. If they approve, it shall take effect on the conclusion of the meeting.

If no petition is filed, the ordinance shall take effect 60 days after its adoption by the Selectboard.

Please address comments or questions to Wheelock Town Clerk Erin Swigart at [email protected] or 802-626-9094.