Newsletter - September 2023

 

HAPPY LABOR DAY WEST MILFORD!

WEST MILFORD ANIMAL SHELTER ANNUAL DOG WALK

If you're looking for a fun way to fall into fitness while supporting a good cause, then the West Milford Animal Shelter Annual Dog Walk might be just your speed! Get your steps in with your best friend, enjoy the park and support the 100% volunteer-operated local animal shelter!
Water and snacks will be provided for people and treats and goodie bags will be given to dogs!
Contests include prizes for best costume (pups and people), best doggie kisser and best dog trick, with a big prize raffle to enter as well!
There is a suggested $10 donation for each dog walking and people are free. Tickets are available in advance at the shelter and from shelter volunteers or at the event.

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DEBUNKING CANINE VACCINE HESITANCY

According to a new study, published in the journal Vaccine, more than half of U.S. dog owners are skeptical about vaccinating their pets, including for rabies.
The study found that 53% of dog owners had doubts about the safety, efficacy and/or need to vaccinate, including 37% who feared canine vaccines could cause autism in their pets.
While vaccines do not cause autism in dogs, they can potentially save your pet's life or even your own.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of warm-blooded animals and people. Once symptoms appear, rabies is nearly 100% fatal, which is why municipalities require that pets be vaccinated against it.
Given West Milford's abundance of wildlife, and the high probability of your pet's coming in contact with it at some point, it's important to keep them up to date on their vaccines, especially rabies. Domestic dogs are responsible for rabies transmission to humans in up to 99% of cases, making it particularly important.
The study's authors also found that canine vaccine hesitancy among owners is problematic because it could put veterinary care providers at risk for diseases like rabies.
The bottom line is that canine vaccines are safe, preventative measures that play a key role in protecting pets, as well as people.

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BACK TO SCHOOL? DON'T FORGET TO BUCKLE UP!

Back to school oftentimes means a stepped-up police presence on the roads, as fall routines are established and everyone gets back in the swing of things.
While no one wants to get pulled over, if it does happen, did you know that you could face an additional ticket if your pet isn't buckled up?
That's right, in New Jersey, pets riding in cars must be restrained with a harness or stowed in a crate or carrier.
If found to be transporting a pet improperly, you could be charged with a disorderly persons offense and fined between $250 and $1,000 for each animal not appropriately secured. Additionally, you could face up to six months in prison.
So next time Fluffy or Fido joins you on a car ride, be sure to pull on their harness or pull out the carrier to keep your next trip ticket-free!

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NATIONAL DISASTER PREPAREDNESS MONTH

If the Maui wildfires, Florida and California hurricanes and tornadoes right in our own backyard have taught us anything, it's the importance of being prepared for when disaster strikes.
Having a pet evacuation kit assembled well in advance of an emergency can help relieve some of the inevitable stress. Once it's assembled, store the kit in an easy-to-carry waterproof container close to an exit.
Food and medicine

First aid kit

Sanitation

Important documents

Travel supplies

Comfort items