  As we enter the warm spring and summer months, I’m sure you share my excitement for spending long hours outside with your pets. Maybe you’re thinking about big plans like hiking through our county’s wonderful forest preserves or hosting a cookout in the backyard. But as pet guardians, we have to think about how the smallest things can cause big problems unless we are proactive with prevention.
Most pet parents are well aware of the importance of flea prevention. If you’ve ever had an infestation in your house, you know how pesky these small insects can be to pets and humans alike. Other insects can cause significant trouble as well. Mosquitos carry heartworms, a devastating parasite that can be fatal if left untreated. While heartworms are more prevalent in southern environments, where mosquitos live year-round, it is still a problem in our area. In fact, we currently have two dogs in the shelter who tested positive for heartworms and are receiving treatment. A common preventative medicine is a tasty treat every month. When compared to how painful and expensive treating a heartworm infestation is and how it can cause inflammation damage to the hearts and lungs, preventative medicine is a small price to pay to keep your pets safe.
Another outdoor risk we may not think about in the Chicagoland area, is the leptospirosis bacteria. Carried by wildlife, the bacteria is typically found in wet areas: lakes, rivers, even puddles in your backyard. Infection in dogs is easily prevented with a yearly vaccine. Consult with your veterinarian about appropriate options for your pets.
May is Lyme Disease Prevention Month. Transmitted by tick bites, this disease can cause problems for us as well as our furry friends. With the mild winter, experts are predicting a buggy summer, so please make sure your pet is current with their preventions and check for ticks after being outside. Many preventative products are available to combat multiple dangers with one dose. Your veterinarian can guide you through the options and pick something that is right for your family.
As we make our big plans in the coming months, let’s not forget to make plans to prevent small pests and keep our furry friends up to date on preventions so everyone has a safe, happy summer!
 Dr. Barbara Hanek,
Veterinarian Administrator
 It's that time of year again - when our community rallies together to show their support for the only open-admission shelter in DuPage County! Giving DuPage Days is the biggest fundraiser of the year for DuPage Animal Friends. This volunteer organization supports DCAS humane initiatives including difficult medical cases, the Underdog to Wonderdog behavior support adoption program, educational programs, and more!
Meet Weezer, formerly known as Dragonfly. Weezer arrived at the shelter in September 2022 as a stray kitten. Care staff noticed he had difficulty breathing and discovered nasal polyps blocking his airway. Since September, Weezer has had 3 surgeries to clear his airways and stayed with two foster families. He is resting comfortably with his foster family as he recovers from his most recent surgery.
Across the country, animals with difficult medical conditions are arriving at shelters needing help. Even 10 years ago, these animals would most likely have been humanely euthanized soon after they arrived due to the cost of treating them. However, with the incredible support of our community and DuPage Animal Friends, DCAS is able to provide positive outcomes for animals like Weezer.
You too can help prevent animal suffering. Click the pictures to visit the DAF website and donate today!
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The greatest responsibility as pet owners is providing proper veterinary care, including necessary vaccinations for our animals. In the State of Illinois, the rabies vaccination is required by law for all cats, dogs, and ferrets under the Animal Control Act. However, many pet owners do not have their animals up to date on their rabies vaccine due to misinformation or ignorance. Our staff frequently encounters pet owners who believe the rabies vaccine is only required for animals who venture outside. Unfortunately, indoor pets are still at risk of exposure to rabies through wild animals entering the home or through wild adventures outside.
DuPage County Animal Services receives multiple calls for service regarding bats found in residences. The state views any bat found inside a living area as a potential exposure and requires the bat tested for rabies. Bat’s teeth are so small, it would be impossible to check your animal for a potential bite.
While bats are the most common carrier of rabies in Illinois, they are not the only risk. Raccoons can carry the rabies virus and are infamous for their B&E abilities. Dogs and cats can also be notorious escape artists and can venture through open doors or windows and can possibly come into contact with wildlife infected with rabies.
If a domestic animal comes into contact with an animal that tests positive for rabies or is not viable for testing, the requires a strict quarantine for the exposed animal. Rabies is a serious and fatal disease, and vaccinating your animal against it is one of the greatest things you can do as an owner for the health and safety of your pet, your family, and the community at large.
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We believe in hope too, Ted Lasso.
- Hope is finding a responsible place to rehome your pets, not dumping them outside.
- Hope is animals going to foster homes where they feel safe and loved.
- And hope is people choosing the adoption option, bringing home animals who need a second chance.
Ted Lasso (bottom) and Coach Beard (top) are two gorgeous Angora rabbits. Their owners realized they could not provide enough care to keep these two buns in tip-top shape.
Angora rabbits are sort of famous for being almost famous for their hair - it's full, soft, and luxurious. But hair like that needs a good maintenance routine. Weekly brushing sessions keep these locks tamed and provide wonderful ways for human caregivers to bond with the buns. These two rabbits fell out of the lucky tree, getting to head to two fabulous foster homes for some needed TLC. Now they're ready to find their forever homes.
Both rabbits are super sweet. Coach Beard is active and curious while Ted Lasso is sweet and snuggly. Just like ice cream and Billy Joel concerts, these rabbits will not disappoint.
Click on their picture to see a video of Coach Beard (top photo) showcasing some superior grooming and a few binkies!
All of our rabbits are spayed/neutered, up to date on their vaccinations (including preventatives), and evaluated by a veterinarian. Check out our adoptable rabbits on our website:
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 $100 per participant, 16 years old and up.
Follow the link below to register. Slots are available first come, first served.
This course teaches first aid techniques to address the most common emergencies pet owners may experience with dogs and cats in the household. This course will train you to notice abnormalities and detect early warning signs in pets. You will also learn essential pre-vet care and life-saving techniques for those times when immediate action can make all the difference.
Please remember, your slot is not secured until payment is received.
May 13, 2023 9am-3pm
July 15, 2023 9am-3pm
https://bit.ly/DCASFirstAid
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