  One of DuPage County Animal Services’ duties is to help control rabies in our County and so it receives all reported animal bites in DuPage County. As of October, our Animal Control Officers have processed over 1,300 bites this year!
With the holidays fast approaching, please be aware animal bites are more common as more people gather. Maybe consider putting your animals in a safe room, away from all the excitement, or talking to your veterinarian for other suggestions on how to decrease your pet’s stress. Even normally social dogs can experience FAS (Fear, Anxiety and Stress) when around visitors and might reach their threshold, resulting in injury to a person or another animal. Food aggression or resource guarding can also result in injury, and it might occur as quickly as picking up a dropped napkin near a dog with this behavioral concern.
Some dog bites, to humans or other animals, are so serious our Animal Control Officers will open what we call a Dangerous Dog investigation. DCAS, along with the police departments throughout DuPage County, rely upon the IL Animal Control Act to help protect the public from serious dog bites. If, after the investigation, it is determined the dog should be deemed “Dangerous,” then restrictions and requirements (as stated in the Il Animal Control Act) are put on the offending dog owner while the dog is in the State of Illinois. Much time and energy goes into the investigation…collecting police reports, medical records, pictures, statements, and more.
To help keep your pup safe, we’ve compiled a list of common scenarios which might contribute to a dog either being injured or causing injury, and is best to avoid:
- using retractable leashes
- equipment failure, such as leashes/tether/collar/harness breaking or ill-fitting, allowing escape
- using “invisible” fences or any electric collars
- visiting dog parks or any high traffic areas such as popular trails, malls and apartment/hotel common areas (especially halls and stairways)
- dog handler/sitter is unable to control the dog, either because of the dog’s strength, the handler falls, or the dog does not respond to voice commands or an electric collar (without a leash)
- containment failure, such as the gate being unlatched, broken fence, open door (including garage doors)
- dog is overstimulated by what they see and hear, such as children playing, (holiday) gatherings, or something as simple as another dog walking past the home
- inability of the dog handler to read the dog’s possibly subtle body language, understand the dog’s triggers, and how quickly the individual dog can reach threshold
This holiday season, take a moment to refresh on how our pets communicate when they are uncomfortable. Remember, you are your pet’s best advocate and protector, so don’t be afraid to do what’s best for them and give them the chance to de-stress away from all of the excitement when they need to.
Please contact us or your veterinarian for more information. We are happy to provide you with resources on certified trainers who use positive reinforcement and/or veterinary behavioralists who can help pets suffering from stress, anxiety, or more.
 Dr. Barbara Hanek,
Veterinarian Administrator
Welcome Adeline S
Adeline joins the care staff as an Animal Caretaker 1.
A life long resident of the Chicagoland area, Adeline explored a variety of animal careers before arriving at DCAS. Starting off as a dog walker and animal hospital tech, she branched out to more exotic animals at Cosley Zoo and Willowbrook Wildlife Center. She's looking forward to being part of the happy stories we see every day at DCAS. From reuniting lost pets with their families to rehabilitating animals who arrived in rough shape, Adeline is excited to make a positive difference in their lives and our community.
With her exotic animal experience, it isn't surprising to learn Adeline cares for a menagerie at home as well. In addition to Lady the Beagle and Lulu the Shih Tzu, Adeline's house includes a tank full of fish and Lolita, the Leopard Gecko.
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Welcome Elaina E
Elaina joins the care staff as an Animal Caretaker 1.
After moving with her family throughout the Southern US and Australia, Elaina is making Illinois her home. For three years she worked for vet clinics in the area. While she loves dogs and cats (especially her own pocket panthers Midnight and Mini Mack), Elaina wanted to expand her experience. She transitioned to shelter medicine working for ADOPT shelter in Naperville before coming to DCAS. She is most excited to learn about and care for the wide variety of animals we see at DCAS, from peacocks to pigs!
In addition to her friendly felines at home, Elaina spends her time hanging out with her two rats Fez and Kelso, named after the characters from That 70s Show.
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The only fashion accessory you need this Fall is Lulu!
This gal is the best of both worlds, a prime time cuddler and an active girl on the go. As an Australian Kelpie mix, Lulu has that working dog attitude and would do best in an active household. She's ready for all kinds of adventures, but prefers her fellow travelers on the older side. Her ideal house would be adults only or with older kids and is looking to be your one and only furry friend.
Get ready for cuddles and kisses on the couch with this gentle spirit. Lulu has been looking for a perfect unicorn family who will finally make her part of their household after so many months of waiting. How can you say no to that face?
Are you that unicorn family?
Click her picture to fill out an application today!
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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.
December 9, 2023 9am-3pm
https://bit.ly/DCASFirstAid
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