Los Angeles' wildlife and our dogs

February 4, 1:55 AMLA Small Dogs ExaminerJohnny Ortez

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Driving home from dinner, stopped at a red light at a major city intersection I see a coyote. It is about 11 pm so there is not a lot of traffic, but we are literally down the street from some of Los Angeles' famous eateries, other high profiled attractions and my backyard. I do not live in the Hollywood hills nor do I live in one of Los Angeles’ rural towns. I live in the heart of city surrounded by big buildings in a heavy pedestrian traffic area.

On more than one occasion, driving around my neighborhood to or from the grocery store or bank I have seen raccoons casually walking down busy streets in the early evening crawling in and out of street gutters.  I have seen possums crossing my front door in the middle of the afternoon. As a small dog owner, I am naturally alarmed and concerned.

I am a fan of all kinds of wildlife, and I suspect many of these wild animals are invading our space because we invaded theirs first. As we continue to develop and take over California’s landscape many wild animals are losing their natural habitat.  I am hopeful there is a way we can all happily cohabit, but my immediate concern is keeping Rufus safe.

I do not want Rufus to be a snack for a hungry coyote, get in a scuffle with a possum or worse get bitten by rabid raccoon. Rabies outbreaks in Los Angeles County are more regularly seen in bats these days. I have not seen any bats as of yet, but the rabies virus is fatal once symptoms appear. Rabies vaccination is required by law to license our dogs since the disease is fatal to humans as well as dogs, raccoons, coyotes, foxes, skunks, cats and other mammals.

In accordance with California state law, it is recommended that puppies receive a single dose of killed rabies vaccine at 16 weeks of age. Adult dogs with unknown vaccination history should also receive a single dose of killed rabies vaccine. A booster is required one year later and thereafter rabies vaccination should be performed every 3 years using a vaccine approved for 3-year administration.

I know today’s economy is tough and some pet owners are forced to cut corners, but I must tell you letting our pet’s vaccinations lapse is not the place to cut costs. Low-cost vaccination clinics are offered year-round at locations throughout the city. Clinics provide inoculations against rabies and other dog and cat diseases.

For more information please contact the Los Angeles Care Center nearest you.
 

Rufus at Laurel Canyon Dog Park with the Hollywood hills as its backdrop.  I can only imagine what wildlife lurks in those hills. 

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