How many animals do the shelters get each year?

Almost 20,000 dogs and cats. On a busy day the shelters will receive as many as 100 animals.

What happens to all those animals?

Currently about 8 per cent are reclaimed by their owners and 11 per cent are adopted to new homes. Sadly, the rest are humanely euthanized because they are terminally ill and suffering, injured or because there are not enough homes for them all.

What can people do to reduce this "pet over-population"?

Have your veterinarian spay or neuter your own pets so that they can not produce more puppies or kittens. Every birth adds to the problem of pet over-population. Also encourage everyone you know to have their pets spayed or neutered.

Do you get many animals with rabies?

There has not been a case of rabies in a dog or cat in Jefferson Parish in over 20 years. But there are confirmed cases of rabies recently in bats in the parish. Raccoons which are plentiful in Jefferson can also be carriers of rabies. By vaccinating our pets we protect them from getting infected with rabies from wild animals and then bringing that disease home to people. Rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats can be administered by any veterinarian.

Is there a leash law in Jefferson Parish?

Yes - Anytime a dog is not confined to its owner's property it must be on a leash not longer than six feet and under control. Also Jefferson Parish has a "pooper-scooper" law. If your dog or cat "does its business" on public or private property you must clean it up promptly and dispose of it in a sanitary manner.