Animal Services
Frequently, we are asked why dog licenses are required. The reason can be summed up with two words – RABIES CONTROL. Rabies is a zoonotic (which can pass between humans and other animals) that has existed for thousands of years. Rabies is a virus that causes infection and disease to the nervous system. It is passed from the saliva of an infected mammal. Once clinical signs of rabies occur, it is almost always fatal. However, there are ways to stop the spread and avoid exposure.
Being a responsible dog owner is the key to your pooch having a happy and healthy life. Below are just a few suggestions on how to be the best dog parent possible.
Know your breed
Six-year-old Kelz is probably the friendliest cat to come to the Animal Services Center. He absolutely loves people.
As soon as he sees someone, he runs right up and rubs on their legs until he gets attention – and if he does not get attention, he will tell you all about it. He is extremely chatty, interactive and affectionate. However, because he’s a black cat, he is getting overlooked at the center.
Officer Galeano was dispatched to a call for a stray loose rooster in Laguna Niguel. The caller said while on her morning walk, she observed the rooster in a tunnel near Crown Valley Parkway & Nueva Vista. She told dispatch the poor rooster appeared disoriented and was worried about him because he was trying to drink the dirty water running through the tunnel. Officer Galeano was able to locate and rescue the rooster after a short pursuit. He was taken back to the shelter and given fresh water and food. He was named Lorenzo and will be transferred to a rescue.
Back in 2016, Laguna Niguel resident Jan came into the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center looking to adopt a dog as a companion for her and her elderly mother. Since she was open to adopting a harder-to-place dog, our staff showed her Wookie, a senior poodle who had been at the shelter for two months. Wookie lived a wonderful three years with Jan and her mom, but Jan recently wrote to tell us that Wookie unfortunately passed away. As sad as we were for Wookie and Jan, we knew he lived his best life with her.
August is National Immunization Awareness Month! Just like us, it's important for our pets to stay on top of their vaccines and immunizations.
Giving your pets their regular vaccinations is the key to a long and healthy life. Regardless of whether you keep your dog inside or not, vaccines are essential in ensuring your pet's health.
Many contagious diseases can be airborne, meaning your pet could contract a disease through an open window. Pets are also prone to slipping out of the house on occasion, which could lead to risk of disease.
Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is committed to providing the best possible service for the five cities it covers during this difficult time. Dedicated staff will continue to care for the animals, and animal services officers will continue to patrol the communities and respond to stray animals and public safety functions.