As warmer weather brings more people and animals outdoors, Lincoln Animal Control is reminding residents to take precautions to keep both pets and wildlife safe.
Manager Denise Bollwitt says the department is already seeing an uptick in activity, including 23 stray dogs picked up over the last weekend alone. She said 20 of those lost pups were either reunited with their owner or impounded.
“If you happen to see stray dogs or something, please contact our office,” Bollwitt said. “We want to make sure that everybody’s got their licenses on their animals and microchips are updated with us for faster return homes.”
Pet owners are also encouraged to check fences and gates for escape routes and to keep dogs on a leash when off their property. Bollwitt said even well-behaved dogs must be leashed in public areas.
“If that dog steps one foot on that sidewalk, it’s considered at large,” she said. “Please make sure that your pets are neutered and spayed too, that will help curb their urge to roam. A female dog in heat can bring a male dog from as far as a mile away.”
With temperatures rising, Bollwitt also stressed never leaving pets in vehicles, noting that cars can heat up to dangerous levels within minutes.
Spring also marks the start of “baby season” for wildlife across Lincoln, leading to more encounters with young animals.
Bollwitt said many baby birds found on the ground are not abandoned, but learning to fly. The same goes for baby rabbits, which are often left alone for long periods while their mother returns only at dawn and dusk. Residents are advised not to handle them unless they are clearly injured.
Foxes and coyotes are also more visible this time of year as they raise young. Bollwitt said residents should avoid feeding or attempting to interact with them.
“We want them to be scared of people,” she said. “Just enjoy them and let them do their thing.”
Contact Lincoln Animal Control at 402-441-7900. For more information, visit lincoln.ne.gov.