Considering getting a pet? 'Paws,' reflect on regs, safety

By Maranda FlynnJune 20, 2013

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(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Fort Huachuca, AZ. - Are you a pet owner on Fort Huachuca? If so, it is important to make sure that you and your furry family member are staying safe and following installation regulations.

Most domestic animals are permitted in post housing; however, Fort Huachuca does have strict guidelines. According to Installation Pet Policy 061, animals that are banned from post quarters include exotic and farmland animals and certain canine breeds such as pit bulls, rottweilers, doberman pinschers, chows and wolf hybrids.

For everyone's safety, if an animal among this list is found on post, it will be subject to confiscation and sent to Veterinary Services.

When a new furry member moves in, tenants in the Fort Huachuca housing communities have five days to register it with the Mountain Vista Communities office. For information, call 515.9000.

Prior to that, registration and microchipping, done at the veterinary clinic, is mandatory. The cost is $37, which includes the registration, microchipping process, a user fee and a wellness exam. To schedule an appointment, call 533.2767.

As the Arizona heat intensifies, follow these simple tips to make sure that your four legged companions are healthy and safe.

• Do not leave your pet in a vehicle for any amount of time, unaccompanied. The temperatures rise quickly and cause dehydration, which can be harmful or even fatal.

• Provide plenty of water for pets left in the yard and a shaded area where they can cool off.

• Ensure that dangerous plants or chemicals are out of your pets' reach.

• Keep your animals groomed to prevent overheating.

• Stay current on rabies, flea and tick prevention and vaccinations. As the monsoon season approaches, fleas and bugs become prevalent.

• If traveling or hiking with your pet, pack extra water and stop regularly to allow it to

rehydrate.

• Keep your local veterinarian on speed-dial in case of emergencies.

Pet abandonment has become an issue on Fort Huachuca. If an animal is abandoned and the owners can be identified, they will be put through an investigation and cited if found guilty.

Many options are available to find a new home for a pet. A quick Internet search will provide free websites to advertise an animal up for adoption. Post fliers on community bulletin boards, ask friends, post in Facebook groups or contact the local animal shelter for possible options.

To celebrate dogs and promote pet adoption, today is the Pet Sitters International, Inc. "Take Your Dog to Work Day®," and some Fort Huachuca organizations are participating.

According to their website, www.takeyourdog.com, this day was created to celebrate the great companions dogs make and to encourage their adoption from humane societies, animal shelters and breed rescue clubs.

Beginning July 1, adopting a cat or dog from the local shelter will be $50. This includes the spay or neuter procedure, the first set of vaccinations, a microchip with full registration and a complete veterinary exam. For information about adopting in the Fort Huachuca and Sierra Vista area, call the Nancy J. Brua Animal Care and Control, 458.4151.

What is just an animal to one is considered a Family member by another. Keep this information in mind and ensure that everyone in the military Family is doing their part in providing a safe, healthy and friendly environment for these loyal and loving pets.