We’ve already interfered. Domesticated dogs and cats mate more often and have larger litters than their wild ancestors, but cannot survive well on their own.
Spaying or neutering makes pets fat and lazy right?
No, that’s caused by overfeeding and lack of exercise. Spayed or neutered pets require fewer calories. Cut down on their meals, and make time for walks or play.
Only females need to be “fixed,” since the litters are their owners’ responsibility right?
But how do those pets get pregnant? A male pet can easily father 750 offspring in his lifetime. (And if he gets into a neighbor’s yard and mates with the “wrong” female, her owner could sue.)
If I neuter my dog, he’ll stop protecting our house won’t he?
Not so! His instinct to “defend his turf” won’t be affected. And he’ll be less likely to wander off.
What’s wrong with wanting my children to see the “miracle of birth”?
But will they? Many pets hide when giving birth. And even if you find good homes for the litter, you may deny homes to animals already born
Pets should have one litter first, to settle them down?
Having a litter won’t improve an animal’s health or permanently change her personality – although she may be tired and irritable while nursing.
Does spaying and neutering cost too much?
They’re cheaper in the long run than caring for the litters! Financial assistance may be available. License fees are often less for spayed or neutered pets.
What are the symptoms of West Nile?
Most people infected with the West Nile Virus will not have any signs of illness.Twenty percent of people who become infected will have mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and occasionally a skin rash on the trunk of the body and swollen lymph glands. The symptoms of severe infection (West Nile encephalitis or meningitis) include headache, high fever, …
Can I be vaccinated for West Nile Virus?
Currently there is no vaccine for West Nile virus, but several companies are working toward developing a vaccine.
How is West Nile Virus treated?
There is no specific treatment for West Nile Virus infection. In severe cases, intensive supportive therapies are used, such as intravenous fluids and medicine to control fever or pain. Antibiotics may be given for any secondary bacterial infection.
Who is at risk for West Nile Virus?
People over 50 years of age have the highest risk of severe disease. It is not known if people with weakened immune systems are at an increase risk for West Nile Virus.
How can I reduce my risk of getting West Nile Virus?
Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to avoid getting the West Nile Virus. Remember the four Ds: Drain, Dusk-to-Dawn, Dress and Deet. Drain standing water in your yard and neighborhood. Standing water can be found in swimming pools that are not kept clean, ponds, pet watering dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys and clogged rain gutters. …
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile Virus is a virus which was previously associated and commonly found in Africa, West Asia and the Middle East. It is not known how long it has been in the United States, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believe the virus probably has been in the US since early summer of 1999. It is closely …
What precautions should I take at home when my area is being sprayed?
Bring in pet dishes or cover them. Cover ornamental ponds and birdbaths. Bring your pets inside for the night. Do not go outside during spray times. If you have health problems, such as asthma, take special precautions as directed by your doctor, if necessary.
Is the Parish going to spray for mosquitoes?
Yes, when it is necessary to do so, we will operate a spray program. We will monitor known breeding sites and apply larvicide to control mosquitos in their infant stages. We will also check identified locations from citizen complaints and apply larvicide or adulticide where needed. WHEN NECESSARY, we will conduct an adulticide spray program to kill mosquito populations during …