June marks the beginning of summer here in the valley, and we have come up with a few tips for you and your pet.

As our community grows, and the number of dogs increases, we hear more and more about barking dogs and complaints. Here are a few ideas to help alleviate this problem if your dog is barking excessively.

Generally, prolonged periods of barking are due to loneliness and can become and obsessive condition. If the barking does become an obsession, it is harder to stop. The animal would rather be with us at all times and when they are left alone all day, they go through separation anxiety. The barking becomes soothing to them. Try giving your dog treats that they have to work at and toys to play with when you leave. For example, fill a hollow toy or Kong ball with treats or peanut butter and let them figure out how to get it out.

Music or TV sometimes calms the animal.

Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise… a sleepy dog is less likely to bark continuously. Go for a long walk or run prior to leaving the house. It is beneficial not only to the dog but for the owner.

In extreme cases, consider a bark collar for your dog. There are several different types and price ranges available. They have been shown to be very effective for habitually barking dogs. Check at a local pet store such as PetSmart of Petco, or check on line for more information on how they work.

As summer approaches and temperatures warm up, your dog (if he has ears that stand up) may experience a common problem knows as fly-bite dermatitis. The common stable fly causes damage to the edge and tips of the ears, producing bloody crusts and scabs. This can be controlled by applying medicated ointments and fly repellant to your dog’s ears.

You may notice your dogs and cats have started shedding now that the weather is warming up. Shedding can be frustrating for the pet owner. Here are a couple of ideas on how to reduce some of the shedding.

Feed a diet high in amino fatty acids and anti-oxidants. These are said to promote healthy skin, increase red cell production, and an efficient immune system process. Amino acids are usually denoted on the label as flower or plant oils. There are also products on the market that claim to reduce or eliminate excessive shedding. Check with you veterinarian or pet store for more information.

Featured dog- Jake

Jake is 3 years old. His owner could no longer keep him. He is a bit shy until he gets to know you but is a loving eager to please boy. Jake knows basic commands, is house trained and likes to sit with his head in your lap so you can pet him more easily. Jake would do best in a home without any other animals so he can receive all your love and attention. He is not an apartment dog as he needs lots of exercise and would do great as a running/walking partner. He has even has his rattlesnake vaccination. Come and meet him today

Other available dogs

Les- Chihuahua /corgi blend. Loves everyone. Plays with toys does well on leash

Willow- Foxhound. Loves to play, go for walks. Needs exercise.

Rosie- Chihuahua Shy girl. Loves people and having her belly rubbed.

Featured cat- Honey Bear: Great little cat. Purrs constantly. Loves being petted. Quiet and calm. No other cats please.

 

All animals will be spayed or neutered prior to leaving shelter and receive 1 year rabies vaccination and city license. Ages are approximate.
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 changed so please visit our Petfinder website for a current listing and more detailed information on the animals. www.mesquiteanimalshelter.petfinder.com

Please also check our Facebook pages for lost and found animals along with pet information. https://www.facebook.com/MesquiteNVAnimalControl and https://www.facebook.com/FRIENDSOFMESQUITENVANIMALSHELTER