December 22, 2008Our guest speaker was presented to us by member Andy Searle. Our guests were Jeanette Saunders and Michael Hardy from the Carteret County Animal Control. Jeanette and Michael had much to share with us regarding the state of the animal problem in Carteret County.
There is a growing population of feral animals in Carteret County. Cats and dogs are being turned loose by people who no longer want their pets or the litters they are producing. To help tackle this problem, Animal Control has a “Spay/Neuter” program for low income families. Hopefully through this program, the numbers of stray, lost and abandoned animals can be reduced.
There is a growing population of feral animals in Carteret County. Cats and dogs are being turned loose by people who no longer want their pets or the litters they are producing. To help tackle this problem, Animal Control has a “Spay/Neuter” program for low income families. Hopefully through this program, the numbers of stray, lost and abandoned animals can be reduced.
Pet registration and rabies vaccinations are law for anyone owning cats and/or dogs. A puppy or kitten should have its first shot, which will last for one year, at a very young age. After that there is a choice for a one year or three year shot. There have been anywhere from 2 to 12 bites per week reported. Four bites were reported just in Newport the past weekend. One boy had to have 24 stitches for the bites he received. Also there has been recent case of a rabid domestic cat biting a young boy in the county. The young man had to undergo the painful series of shots necessary for a bite victim.
People should educate themselves regarding the natural instincts of the breed of pet they are considering adopting or purchasing. Puppies should be acclimated to be around people, and should have obedience and socialization classes. “Pet Parents” should also consider having a “micro-chip” placed on their pet in case of loss, they can be identified. This can be done simply at any vet’s office for a price of about $10 to $75.
Animal Control is greatly understaffed, and they are getting about 15, 800 calls per year. With only 3 staff, they are having a hard time getting to all the calls that need attention. The shelter is always full of adoptable animals, such as they get about 125 to 200 cats per month. Some of the dogs that are transported to the shelter are lucky enough to be transported to Wilmington for training to become helpers for the disabled.
People should educate themselves regarding the natural instincts of the breed of pet they are considering adopting or purchasing. Puppies should be acclimated to be around people, and should have obedience and socialization classes. “Pet Parents” should also consider having a “micro-chip” placed on their pet in case of loss, they can be identified. This can be done simply at any vet’s office for a price of about $10 to $75.
Animal Control is greatly understaffed, and they are getting about 15, 800 calls per year. With only 3 staff, they are having a hard time getting to all the calls that need attention. The shelter is always full of adoptable animals, such as they get about 125 to 200 cats per month. Some of the dogs that are transported to the shelter are lucky enough to be transported to Wilmington for training to become helpers for the disabled.
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