"Paws-ing" for Pets

Did you know that 56 percent of dogs and 71 percent of cats that enter a shelter do not leave? With the summer months upon us and the current economic situation, those numbers could continue to increase.

According to Paulding County Animal Control’s Road Officer Supervisor, Aileen Culberson, summer is also the prime breeding months for most animals, with the greatest increase coming from the cat population. This is one reason it is extremely important for all animal owners to spay and neuter their pets, which helps with keeping populations down and helps decrease unwanted pets that end up at shelters. The Animal Control facility also has other animals such as rabbits and Easter pets that end up needing care and a home.

 The economy also plays an enormous role in owners having to abandon their pets simply because of the cost or because people are being forced to move into places where pets are not allowed. Another cause of pet abandonment that people may not be aware of is surprisingly, vacations.

“This is also vacation time for a lot of people and we have a lot of people telling us they are turning in their pets because they are going on vacation and can not take their pets with them,” Culberson said.

Even though there is a rise in surrendered pets, there are ways you can help to make a difference for these animals. Volunteers are always needed for adoption events outside of the shelter and also for inside shelter needs such as cleaning cages, walking the dogs and bathing the animals. All volunteers must be 18 and fill out a registration form.

If you cannot volunteer, donations are always accepted. With such a large influx of animals, the shelter is always in need of bleach, sheets, towels, washcloths, dishwashing liquids, dog and cat food and treats and even food for smaller animals such as hamsters and rabbits.

There are other prevalent issues concerning pets that owners should be aware of during the summer months. With the heat becoming an issue, all pets should have access to food, water and shelter at all times. If you take your pet with you while doing errands or shopping, know that if you leave your pet in the vehicle with no air, even for a short run into a store, it could result in the death of your pet and even animal cruelty charges against you. Regular health check ups are also needed for your pets to make sure they are getting the proper care and medication needed.

“The summer heat is also responsible for the spread of diseases such as parvo, and ticks and fleas,” noted Culberson. “Proper vaccinations and preventatives can help with the spread of such diseases.”

If you have any questions or concerns, or are simply interested in volunteering, contact the Paulding County Animal Shelter at 770-445-1511 or visit the Paulding County website at www.paulding.gov.