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DOGS IN COLD WEATHER!

November 30, 2020 By MSPCA Staff Leave a Comment

Every year when winter arrives, the Mobile SPCA is contacted about tethered dogs being left outside in the cold. Here are some things you should know.

Only the POLICE and ANIMAL CONTROL at the municipal shelter that serves the area where the dog is located have the legal authority to investigate neglect/abuse reports. Without the involvement of law enforcement, the Mobile SPCA cannot assist on private property so as much as we would like to help, we simply cannot be your first contact for help.

THIS IS WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
Call 311 or 208-2800 during the day, or call the police department at 208-7211 any time the shelter is closed. The City Shelter told 311 and MPD that during this cold weather any call to check conditions on dogs with no shelter will be dispatched immediately.

Local Municipal Shelter Phone Numbers:
Saraland Animal Control – (251) 679-5570
Mobile County Animal Shelter – (251) 574-3647
City of Mobile Animal Shelter – (251) 208-2800
Prichard Animal Shelter – (251) 456-5399

A citizen residing in Dauphin Island, Satsuma, Chickasaw, Mount Vernon, Creola, or Semmes needs to contact their local Police Department or enforcement agency. Mobile County Animal Control has no authority to enter and enforce any laws within these municipalities unless they request assistance through the Mobile County Commission to deal with their animal issues. If you can’t get the appropriate police department to answer, and the animal is sick or injured, Mobile County Animal Control MAY take it, but as these cities have their own Animal Control departments, you will be charged a drop off fee.

Dauphin Island Police Department — (251) 861-5523
Satsuma Police Department — (251) 675-0151
Chickasaw Police Department — (251) 452-0571
Mount Vernon Police Department — (251) 829-6631
Creola Police Department — (251) 675-8145
Semmes Police Department — (251) 574-8040

If you take these steps but you know that no one responded, PLEASE CALL AGAIN! Continue to call until you know that the situation has been investigated.

NOTE: While the situation may be frustrating, please remember to be polite to authorities when you speak to them. They are after all on our side and want to help not only us but the animals.

Sometimes you may feel that no one showed up but that may not be the case. Just because you didn’t see AC or the police at your neighbor’s house does not mean they weren’t there. It’s possible they investigated but found no cause. Unfortunately, we must all work within the confines of the law. Simply because you or I think an animal is being neglected or abused does not mean it is an enforceable offense. Our laws state very clearly that a tethered dog must have access to water, food and shelter. I am positive that my idea of adequate shelter does not match what many believe is. But until such time as our laws are changed for the better, that’s what we’ve got to work with.

If you have contacted the proper authorities but you feel confident they have not responded to your request, THEN please send a private message to the Mobile SPCA’s FB page or email us at [email protected] with the following information:
When you called (date and time), who you spoke to (name), and the address of the dog you think is in peril. If you can safely take a photo or get a video supporting what you believe to be neglect or abuse, include that as well because that is VERY HELPFUL. Our staff will then contact the people to whom you spoke, provide them with any additional information you may have (including photos/videos), attempt to follow up with them, and relay whatever information we receive back to you.

But it all starts with YOU! Contact the proper authorities, follow up with them until you believe they have responded, get proof if possible, and then contact us if the dog is still in danger.

Thank you for always speaking up for those innocent creatures who have no voice to protect themselves.

 

Filed Under: The Scoop

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Mobile SPCA

620 Zeigler Circle West
Mobile, Alabama 36608
(251) 633-3531

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Meet Luna, a lively and friendly adult cat who calls the shelter her temporary home. Luna's energy is infectious; she loves to play and explore, making every day an adventure. Despite her vivacious spirit, Luna prefers the company of humans over other animals. She enjoys the quiet moments as much as the playful ones, appreciating a good petting session or a calm evening by your side. Luna's independent streak makes her a unique companion. She's a cat who knows her mind, and isn't afraid to show it. Luna's friendly and energetic nature, combined with her love for human companionship, makes her the perfect addition to any home ready to embrace her vibrant personality. Adopt Luna and experience the joy of her companionship.
If you are interested in adopting a Luna or another a great Mobile SPCA cat or dog, call the Mobile SPCA at (251) 633-3531 or click here.  You will need to fill out an online application, so get started! Once we get your application we will review it and get back in touch with you and set up an appointment for you to come in. Like the rest of the world, we, too, are short staffed so please call ahead for an appointment. We want to make sure we have someone in the office to take care of you quickly. 
The Mobile SPCA would like to thank WKRG News 5 and Port City Pups for sponsoring our WKRG News 5 Pet of the Week segment.

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ADOPTION LOCATION
Pinebrook Shopping Center
3980 Airport Boulevard
Open 7 days a week
(251) 343-2227

All pets adopted through the Mobile SPCA receive a free bag of Science Diet Food. Contact office for details.

620 Zeigler Circle West, Mobile, Alabama 36608 • (251) 633-3531

Tax ID Number: 63-0500374

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