Douglas County Animal Control

1007 E South Central Ave

PO Box 192

Tuscola, IL 61953

Phone: 217-253-4921

Fax: 217-253-4921

E-mail

    It may only be February, but the weather is already warming up and reminding us that spring is just two short months away. Spring means many things here at the shelter. The dogs go back to getting some outside time in the sun, the cleaning and improvements kick it up a notch, and regular walks are put back into the schedules when we have the volunteers.

    Unfortunately, spring is also the time when puppies and kittens start showing up in waves at shelters everywhere. Some of these are wayward Christmas presents--now five months old and hitting their stubborn toddler stage. Others are just accidents, the product of wandering, unaltered pets. In addition, as the weather gets nicer more dogs are tempted to go on walks by themselves. So as the weather warms up and our four-legged friends start getting excited about going outside again, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Spaying and neutering will ensure that your dog never contributes to the pet population problem--no unwanted surprises after unsupervised romps. Even if your dog or cat is outside in your yard, a stray animal is always a risk for an unaltered pet. Spaying or neutering also solves many behavioral issues, such as leg lifting and some types of aggression. (Low income options for cat spay and neuter are offered locally--contact the Central Illinois Animal Welfare Coalition at 217-819-3535 for eligibility and scheduling).
• Keeping your dog on a leash is not only good sense--it’s the law in Douglas County! An unleashed dog, even supervised or recovered, could get you fined if it’s reported.
• Warm, wet springs are also breeding grounds for germs. Make sure your pets are up to date on broad-spectrum vaccines and watch what your dog eats while he’s outside. Intestinal parasites can’t be vaccinated against and can be picked up easily.
• Speaking of parasites, our least favorite guests are about to reappear for 2010--fleas! While we always recommend year-round flea prevention, if you do hold off for the winter you should start your first dose at least a month before you expect the weather to be warm enough for fleas and ticks.

   That said, Douglas County Animal Control & Shelter wishes you all a happy and healthy spring. Keep an eye on our adoption pages, as the spring rush will also bring plenty of variety for anyone looking to add to the family.