In 2002, Marquette and Waushara Counties enacted an animal control ordinance. Because of numerous tracking problems with bite incidents, problems with strays, the amount of animals involved in bite incidents that were not vaccinated, and improper quarantine followup, the Counties decided that the Ordinance would not only provide a means to prevent future animal problems, but give all involved notice as to what is expected of animal owners.


Marquette and Waushara Counties traditionally have had little problems with Kennel Operators. Most were already following proper procedures and were not be affected by the changes. The main reason for the requirement of an inspection in the proposed Ordinance was to gain control on the increasing popular, poorly run “puppy mills”, and to ensure a level playing field with compliance in regard to what is expected according to Statute. As a Health Department, we also have a concern about the relative health of the animals being raised and the significant vectors and diseases that can affect persons purchasing these animals. We believe that the items listed on the inspection form sufficiently address these and other Statutory concerns. We are open to suggestions, and will be willing to modify the inspection report should comments indicate an inadequacy.


According to the Ordinances, all kennel operators (homes harboring more than 5 adult dogs in Waushara County and homes harboring more than 4 adult dogs in Marquette County) will be required to have a yearly sanitary inspection completed when applying for a license. Because the inspection will be based solely on the inspection report, it is suggested that kennel operators obtain a copy of the report prior to the licensing year so that changes can be made if need be. Modifications will be made to the form during the inspection for those with non commercial kennels . You will be required to contact the County Health Department for an inspection PRIOR to applying for a kennel license. After the inspection, you will receive either an approval, a conditional approval, or a denial. In the case of a denial, you will be given written corrective actions to be completed PRIOR to applying for a license. You must schedule another inspection to ensure that the requirements have been met prior to applying. In this case, the licensing section will be left blank . A conditional approval will allow you to obtain a license, however; a follow up inspection is required within 30 days to ensure that conditional compliance has been met. In all cases, you will be required to present a copy of the inspection report to the county clerk’s Office (year round) or your local municipal treasurer (January ONLY) in order to receive the license. Currently, there will be no extra charge for the inspections. All inspections should be scheduled with the health department at least one week in advance. Inspections will be made during normal office hours at the discretion of the health department. Please remember that failure to obtain a kennel license may result in significant penalties.


If you have any questions or comments or would like to address me personally, I can be reached at the Marquette County Health Department on Tuesdays and every other Thursday and Waushara County Health Department on Wednesdays and Fridays. I would like to thank all of you for your cooperation in this matter. I know that changes are always rough. I hope that I can work with you to make this change a simple process.