CLEVELAND — The Cleveland city kennel (AKA "City Dogs") is taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of staff, volunteers and visitors during the COVID-19 crisis.
The kennel is closed to the walk-in public. Appointments have to be made to visit.
The city's animal control officers will continue rescuing dogs from bad situations and picking up dogs that pose a safety threat. Officers will focus on returning dogs to their owners rather than bringing them back to the shelter.
The kennel is reducing return to owner fees for first-time offenders as an incentive for owners to redeem their dogs at the kennel.
The kennel is listing all impounded animals online, rather than just listing strays.
Animals can be viewed at http://tinyurl.com/caccimpoundeddogs.
People with lost pets are encouraged to look at the website for their pet rather than going to the kennel in person. Stray dogs should still be brought to the kennel.
Potential adopters must schedule an appointment in advance to meet a dog. Kennel staff must manage crowds at the facility.
Adopters should fill out this form to request a meet and greet with a dog.
A City Dogs adoption counselor will contact potential adopters once the form is completed.
Adoption fees are waived through April 1, 2020.
With so many people working from home now and with the city kennel having so many adorable dogs up for adoption, now more than ever is a great time to adopt a new furry family member.
Staff at the Cleveland city kennel is also offering advice during this time:
- They suggest pet owners plan ahead. If a pet owner falls ill, plans should be made for the pet to be cared for.
- Stock up on pet supplies, at least two weeks' worth.
- Secure a pet sitter in case of an emergency.
- Try to ensure pets do not get lost, check that fences and gates are secure.
- Keep pets on a leash.
- Make sure dogs are licensed, its the law.
- Practice good hygiene when handling your pet. The World Health Organization released a statement that there is no evidence that dogs or cats can become sick or could spread the novel coronavirus.
There is however a possibility that the live virus could live on a pet's fur so thorough hand washing is necessary after touching your pet.
The Cleveland city kennel is in need of supplies. Items needed are on the city kennel's Amazon wish list.
City Dogs need fosters. City dogs need adopters.
Please consider adopting a city dog!
The number to the Cleveland city kennel is 216-664-3069.
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