Animal Control

Contact animal control officer Justin Goggles at his Fish and Wildlife number at (406) 407-3037

The Blackfeet Reservation's Animal Control efforts can be traced back to 2007 when spay-neuter clinics were introduced to manage dog populations. In 2008, an animal control officer was in place who operated from a "pound" and managed strays, attempting to return them to their owners or find adoptive families.

The pound was described as a small tin building housing six kennels. After a long hiatus without an animal control officer, Justin Goggles, a former veteran of the Blackfeet Tribal Police, has recently taken on the role. Currently, he is in the process of cleaning and sanitizing the former pound.

The Blackfeet Tribe has allocated $60,000 to initiate this program, now run through the Blackfeet Fish and Wildlife Department. Collaboration efforts with Pets for Life, Tea DuCharme of Spirit of Imitaa, and Colleen Nolan are ongoing. The program also aims to connect with external shelters and societies for support in relocating homeless dogs. Existing tribal ordinances dictate housing restrictions for dogs, including a leash or fenced requirement. Though the current enforcement ability is limited, changes and tighter enforcement are on the horizon. In terms of equipment and supplies, donations, including a catch pole, sanitizer, and vaccinations, have been made to support the renewed efforts.

At present, the primary focus remains in Browning, with plans to expand into neighboring areas and expanding the facility.