FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 14, 2020
Contact: Justine Lentz
Animal Services Superintendent
Community Resources
479-444-3455
jlentz@fayetteville-ar.gov
Love ‘em and Leash ‘em: Dogs and Cats, Both
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — We are all eagerly awaiting the arrival of spring, when the air turns warmer and everything old starts to look new again. It is a great time to get out and enjoy our beautiful city, from parks to trails to your own front yard. Animal Services wants to take the opportunity to reminde citizens about our leash law. The leash law in Fayetteville (section 92.22) applies to both dogs and cats. That’s right, our feline friends are included, too!
There are many dangers to owned cats that are let outside to freely roam. From simple parasites like fleas to the dangers of vehicles and wildlife, outside cats are exposed to a wide variety of factors that can negatively impact their lifespan. Statistics show that indoor cats lead longer, healthier lives than outdoor cats. Indoor cats live on average 10-15 years, while outdoor cats live on average 2-5 years.
A cat’s prey drive is so strong that even well-fed cats may naturally enjoy hunting birds or other small animals. Although the impact made by one cat might not seem like a big deal, it is important to think about the total impact of all the cats who are allowed outside. According to the Audubon Society, loose cats are estimated to kill hundreds of millions of birds each year, yet birds are believed to be only 20 percent of the wildlife stray cats kill. Birds are especially at risk around homes with feeders and birdbaths.
Animal Services offers microchipping any time the shelter is open, with no appointment necessary for only $20. Microchipping your pet is a fail-safe way to know that your pet can be identified. It can’t fall off or get lost like a collar or tag; it is also required under city ordinance. Animal Services is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and is located at 1640 S. Armstrong Avenue. To learn more about Animal Services, or to view pets currently available for adoption, visit http://www.fayetteville-ar.gov/525/Animal-Services.
###