News from the Animal Shelter

We recently had the opportunity to speak with Animal Control Supervisor, Brendan Hanson, about several timely topics related to pets and we are sharing our notes from that conversation here.

GIVING ANIMALS AS GIFTS: As Easter approaches, it's important to remember that PETS ARE NOT PRESENTS. Pets are family members, and as such require time, patience, attention, and consistency. Giving a pet like a puppy – or chicks or bunnies, during this time of year – is a major commitment and not to be undertaken lightly. For example, rabbits can live more than a decade and require care to be healthy animals. They also reproduce quickly and can lead to additional animals that need care.

KELLY FOX ANIMAL ADOPTION PROGRAM: The program has successfully matched 35 pets with local families! To adopt a pet from the animal shelter, you must complete an adoption request and email it to the shelter for review. If you have other pets in the family, they must be current on their vaccinations and be licensed. Meet and greets for animals can be arranged prior to an adoption. There are currently approximately 7 dogs and 6 cats available for adoption.

ANIMAL LICENSING: Dogs, cats, and pot bellied pigs are required by law to be licensed in the city. The cost is just $4 per year, per dog or cat (for reference, it's about $15 in Henderson). It's important because it's the only way animal control can ensure that these animals have a current rabies vaccine. Rabies is a fatal disease for humans so knowing a pet's vaccination status is important. Additionally, information is recorded about your pup or kitten that may assist animal control staff in reuniting your pet to your family, should you become separated.

SPRING WILDLIFE: With warmer temperatures early this year, be on the lookout for snakes. Should you encounter one on your property, contact Animal Control at (702) 293-9283 or the non-emergency dispatch line at (702) 293-9224, option 1, and they will relocate the animal to the desert. Scorpions have also made the news recently. They enjoy living in foliage like palm trees and can be seen at night with a blacklight. Contact a pest control company if you are having issues with scorpions. Coyotes will continue to be part of our community and often venture in to neighborhoods during the late evening / early morning hours. Secure trash and don't leave pet food outside where coyotes can get to it. Keep small animals inside and supervise them while outside.

ANIMALS LEFT IN VEHICLES: Again, temperatures being warmer than what we're used to this time of year, animals should not be left in vehicles. If you see an animal in a closed vehicle, contact the police department at either (702) 293-9224, option 1 (non emergency situation) or via 911 (emergency situation) to report. Drivers can be cited for endangering animals by leaving them in cars.

SHELTER NEEDS: As usual, the shelter is in need of donations of old blankets and towels for the animals and their care. They also accept pet clothing, leashes, harnesses, collars, toys, etc. You can also donate food (the shelter feeds all animals Purina brand food, including Fancy Feast for kittens). Special diet food like diabetic regimens, are also accepted. They are also in need of cleaning supplies for the shelter like bleach, laundry soap, dishwashing soap, etc. You must make arrangements for drop off by calling (702) 293-9283 and leaving a message. They will return your call when they return to the shelter.

We are grateful for our wonderful Animal Control shelter staff and their dedication to the animals in our community.