September Tip of the Month

September marks the beginning of back-to-school season and the beginning of Fall. We have come up with tips so that pets can be safe and happy.

Do not let pets go back to school with the children. Many dogs will want to follow children walking to school. Make sure the family pet is secure in the yard and don’t bring him with you when walking the kids to school. Dogs at school can be dangerous. If a loose dog is seen, don’t approach it. Contact Animal Control immediately. If the dog approaches you, stand still, don’t look directly at the dog. He will probably sniff the body or clothing and move on. If the dog does try to bite, give him a purse, school bag, anything available, and as soon as possible call Animal Control!

Does the dog dig in the yard? Dogs dig for coolness in the summer, boredom and smells. In the summer, make sure the dog has a cool shady place to lie down. Try to give it more exercise. If the dog has less energy, he will be less likely to dig from boredom. Also try dog and cat repellants to put in the hole. this unpleasant smell may deter his digging. If repellents are not readily available, try using the dogs own feces ad covering them up. The dog may find this side undesirable as a dig site.

We cannot stress enough how important it is to have the family pet spayed or neutered. Every year millions of unwanted cats and dogs are put to death in shelters across the country. This is due to overpopulation and accidental litters. Not only does it help the animal population, it may make male cats and dogs calmer and not so tempted to get out and roam. Also, it is the law in Mesquite- sees below.

Mesquite City Ordinance

10-7-1: MANDATORY SPAY/NEUTER OF DOGS AND CATS:

Subject to the exceptions provided in this chapter, no person shall harbor within the city of Mesquite any dog or cat over the age of six (6) months that has not been spayed or neutered. For purposes of this section and chapter, “harbor” means legal ownership, of the providing of regular care or shelter, protection, refuge or nourishment, or medical treatment; provided however that the term shall not include the providing of nourishment to a stray or feral cat or dog. (Ord. 433, 1-26-2010, eff. 3-1-2010)

http://sterlingcodifiers.com/codebook/index.php?book_id=455&section_id=603452

10-7-2: EXCEPTIONS TO SPAY/NEUTER REQUIREMENTS: Can be found at the web site listed title 10 Chapter 7  http://www.mesquitenv.gov/city-government/city-code

Featured Dog:

At time of article submission there are no dogs ready for adoption

Featured Cat:  3 kittens.

Kiwi 8-13-14 003Kiwi is one fun-loving (and adorable!) little kitty. She has a curiosity that can’t be matched and is always looking for a new adventure. Kiwi’s never come across a toy she didn’t like or a person she didn’t immediately befriend. Gray and white 8 weeks old

Twix 8-13-14 001Twix, he purrs as soon as you reach out your hand to pet him, and he is getting into this “holding and petting” thing. He’s so quiet and sweet when you hold him that you may forget he’s even in your lap, except for all of the purring. Orange male 8 weeks old

Cupcake 8-13-14 002Cupcake is one fun-loving (and adorable!) little kitty. She has a curiosity that can’t be matched and is always looking for a new adventure. She has never come across a toy she didn’t like or a person she didn’t immediately befriend. Gray and white tabby 8 weeks old.

Other available cats: At time of article submission there are no other cats ready for adoption

All animals will be spayed or neutered prior to leaving shelter and receive 1 year rabies vaccination and city license. Ages are approximated.
The City of Mesquite Animal Shelter located at 795 Hardy Way is open for adoptions from 11am until 1 pm, Monday through Saturday, Sunday 1pm -3pm. Please call 702-346-7415 during these hours to speak to the front desk. Animal Control may be reached by phone or voicemail at 702-346-5268.

The animals submitted to the media may have changes so please visit our Petfinder website for a current listing and more detailed information on the animals. www.mesquiteanimalshelter.petfinder.com