Animal Shelter Statistics 11-2009

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Animal Services Monthly Report November, 2009 8 statistics compiled by our Animal Control Division. As is ordinarily the case, the majority of these vaccinations—889 out of a total of 1065 vaccinations—continue to be performed at veterinary establishments. In addition, another sixty-seven (67) animals were vaccinated at our Animal Services Center prior to their adoption or recovery. One hundred and nine animals were vaccinated at one low-cost rabies vaccination clinic held in November. This year, ten low-cost clinics have been held, with 1084 total animals vaccinated at those clinics. In 2008, 1159 animals were vaccinated at nineteen clinics. Seventeen total clinics were held during 2007—and 1157 dogs and cats were vaccinated as a result. For information about upcoming clinics, visit http://www.co.orange.nc.us/animalservices.rabies.asp. All of these activities—public education and outreach, investigations and enforcement, and providing low-cost vaccination clinics—are critical given that Orange County continues to be affected by the epidemic of “eastern raccoon rabies” that began in the latter half of the 1990s. Special Monthly Notes During the month of November, the department kicked off its annual Home for the Holidays campaign, designed to raise awareness of adoptable animals during the holiday season. The campaign, which runs throughout November and December, is the basis for several outreach and public awareness events. This year, the campaign kicked off on November 9th with guided tours, refreshments and several handouts and freebies for customers. Two additional adoption events were also held on November 14th and 21st. A notable factor in disposition numbers still again this month is the overall economic downturn that North Carolina and other regions have experienced. As has been discussed in professional publications and reviewed on national news coverage, this economic burden has forced many people to give up things they once were more able to afford, including pets. Our impression is that this may not only be affecting adoption numbers, but also owner surrenders, reclaim rates and the ability for people to provide different levels of care such as spaying and neutering pets. Despite the economy’s effects on businesses of all kinds, adoption and reclaim numbers have stayed moderately level, in part due to staff’s dedicated work in areas such as outreach, visibility, awareness, and education. Conclusion Animal Services continues to develop new ways in which to better serve the animals and citizens of the county. With the opening of the new Animal Services Center in June of 2009, the department expects to be able to better meet the needs of the community and more effectively and efficiently in the long run. The creation of the new facility has been a priority in the planning and time of the department since its creation, and this