Residents can be part of solution at dog shelter

[TribalRats]

March 1, 2007

Along with six other Marion County Dog Shelter volunteers, I am saddened by the recent case of parvovirus at the shelter that resulted in dogs being euthanized. However, we are now more than ever committed to helping the shelter and helping homeless dogs find loving, forever homes. This is how every citizen can help the Marion County Dog Shelter:

# Adopt a dog from the shelter.

# Volunteer at the shelter.

# Donate to the shelter. You may donate cash, towels, small rugs, blankets, dog bedding, dog food and dog toys.

# Vaccinate your dog. This will protect your dog and other dogs in the event of exposure to the parvovirus and other dog viruses.

# License and microchip your dog and tell others to do the same. Licensing and microchipping your dog allows the shelter to reunite stray dogs with their families. Licensed dogs have had a rabies vaccination that protects them and the community. License fees also fund shelter operations.

# Spay and neuter your pets and tell others to do the same. There are not enough homes for all the homeless dogs and cats in our community.

# Educate your family, neighbors, students and co-workers about all of the above.

Be a part of the solution.

-- Debbie West, Salem