Avoiding problems of stray and loose dogs

Stray and loose dogs can be a problem. That problem can be easily fixed with some very simple rules. Such as keeping the dog tied up on the property or use an invisible fence to contain the dog to the property. Keeping the dog on the property of the dog’s owner can mean avoiding the dog getting loose as well as avoiding possible criminal charges. The State of Ohio Law requires all dogs to stay on the dog’s owners’ property.

Dogs can become lost and if someone looses a dog, please contact the Putnam County Dog Warden to report the missing dog. The dog may end up at the shelter or strays on someone else’s property. This is why it is important to report the dog missing so the dog can be reunited with the family. If a stray dog does find its way to the pound and no one calls to claim the dog, then the dog could end up being euthanized.

Stray dogs are sometimes very hard to place to a new home when the dog warden has no information about the dog. This is why it is very important to contact the Putnam County Dog Warden when someone needs to surrender a dog and not just let the dog run loose.

Gathering information about the dog can be very valuable in getting the dog adopted to a new home rather than being euthanized. Such information as the temperament of the dog, does the dog get along with other animals and children, up to date on shots and any training. When a family comes into the shelter to adopt a dog, having this type of information can help make a good and informed decision for picking the right family pet.

When someone can no longer take care of the dog, the dog warden must be called to surrender the dog instead of just letting the dog go. Criminal charges could be filed against anyone that just lets their dog run free and does not call to claim or surrender the dog. Please contact the Putnam County Dog Warden at (419) 523-8617 to surrender the dog so that the dog will have a better chance of getting adopted to a new family or risk being euthanized.

Beginning in December, dog owners can purchase new dog licenses for the 2010 year and will have until the end of January 2010 to avoid possibly paying a penalty. All dogs over the age of 3 months are required by State law to have a dog license and the dog license must be worn on the dog. Even dogs that spend most of their time in the house are still required to have a dog license. Purchasing a dog license can be a valuable tool in getting the family dog back.

If a family is looking to adopt a dog, please visit the Putnam County Dog Shelter’s website at www.petfinder.com/shelters/OH611.html to find your newest family member. The Putnam County Dog Shelter is participating in the IAMS Home for the Holidays promotion. IAMS is looking to adopt over 1.5 million dogs during this holiday season so visit the shelter soon. Please visit the Putnam County Dog Shelter on Thursdays from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. or on Saturdays from 9 a.m. -10 a.m. or call (419) 523-8617 to setup an appointment. The shelter is located at the Putnam County Fairgrounds, E. Second Street, Ottawa, OH. The shelter also provides all dogs that come into the shelter with the Bordetella Vaccine and for a limited time, all dogs that get adopted from the shelter will be spayed or neutered at no charge. The Putnam County Dog Warden does not handle cat calls or accept cats at the shelter.

Please contact Mike Schroth, Putnam County Dog Warden for any further information.