Dedicated Animal Welfare Group (DAWG)

09/21/2024

09/21/2024

The City Council on Tuesday received an update (https://ow.ly/OizP50Tn9E6) on the Airport Fire by Orange County Fire Authority Division Chief Cheyne Maule, and Emergency Operations Manager Paul Catsimanes and Animal Services Supervisor Brynn Lavison detailed the City’s efforts, response and public outreach.

https://ow.ly/OVYG50Tn9E7

09/17/2024

Sleek James Bond arrived at the shelter about 4 months ago. He was still a kitten and overlooked during kitten season, which is a mystery because James Bond is a fun, high energy adolescent kitty! Volunteers say he is super sweet, loves to play and get his back scratched. James Bond would love to find a home with an active family that can include him in their activities and give him lots of playtime. DAWG will sponsor his adoption fees in order to find him a home very soon. He'll go home to an approved applicant paying only for the microchip fee. Come to Mission Viejo Animal Services Center to meet sweet James Bond or call for more information @ 949-470-3045.

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government City of Laguna Hills

09/12/2024

We're so glad the elusive Journey has been rescued thanks to the hard work of the animal officers at Mission Viejo Animal Services Center. If her owner cannot be found, she'll be available for adoption soon!

Mission Viejo Animal Services successfully rescued a stray dog now named "Journey” that had avoided capture despite several attempts.

Journey was first reported over a month ago, with residents often spotting her wandering the streets of Laguna Niguel. Each time Animal Control Officers got close, she quickly ran away.

Journey's time on the streets was not without risks. Presumably avoiding traffic and searching for food and water wherever available, her ability to survive was impressive. Despite the efforts, she managed to elude staff. Recently, things took a positive turn when the Animal Services received a tip that Journey was spotted in a backyard. The team quickly set up a box trap and baited it with an effective lure—a chicken sandwich. Within an hour, the officers' persistence paid off. Journey entered the trap, ending her time as a stray.

"Journey was very elusive, but we never gave up," said Senior Animal Control Officer Stewart, who facilitated Journey's capture. "Our team worked hard, and we're very happy with the outcome."

Now at the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center, Journey is showing her sweet nature and winning over staff. She's receiving excellent care along with plenty of love and attention. Staff is hoping to find Journey’s owner; however, it will be a challenge since she has no microchip or identifying information. If no owner is found, the shelter is committed to finding her a loving home.

As Journey starts this new chapter, the community can be proud of the dedication shown by the Animal Services Department.

09/05/2024

This month, Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is are delighted to celebrate a truly special family that has dedicated 14 years to fostering puppies. Meet Jennifer, her two sons Logan and Tyler and their beloved dog Sadie, whose combined efforts have made a remarkable difference in the lives of countless puppies.

Their journey began in an unexpected and heartwarming way and has since become a cherished part of their lives. The story began while the family was on vacation visiting friends who were fostering a pregnant beagle. The boys were on “puppy watch” the entire week, eagerly anticipating the arrival of a new litter. Although no puppies came during their stay, the experience sparked something special in the boys. When they returned home, they were determined to continue the mission and insisted that they foster a pregnant mama dog. Jennifer agreed, and the family welcomed their first foster into their home. They quickly fell in love with the experience, and what started as a one-time commitment turned into a 14-year tradition of fostering.

Jennifer and her boys have opened their home and hearts to puppies in need of care and love and their home has become a sanctuary where puppies receive not only the necessary care but also an abundance of affection, preparing them for their forever homes. Jennifer jokes “The boys were birthing pups before they had girlfriends.” Both wrote their college essays about the responsibilities and challenges they faced while fostering, reflecting on how these experiences shaped their character. Tyler was particularly recognized for his dedication. He applied for and was awarded a scholarship from the City of Mission Viejo for his outstanding community service with the shelter. In the same year, he also received an award for completing the most hours of community service among all the scholarship recipients—a testament to his hard work and commitment. Although Logan and Tyler are now away at college, their commitment to fostering hasn’t wavered. Whenever they return home during breaks, they jump right back into the routine, helping their mom with a litter or two. Their involvement over the years has been nothing short of extraordinary, and their continued support during their time off from school is a testament to the strong bond they share with these animals.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of this family’s fostering journey is the involvement of their dog Sadie. Despite the many dogs that have passed through their doors, they have only adopted one—a mama dog named Sadie, who captured their hearts. Sadie, a nurturing and gentle soul, steps in as a surrogate mother when puppies arrive without their own. Her motherly instincts kick in immediately, and she provides comfort and companionship to these young pups, helping them feel safe and loved. Sadie’s role in the fostering process has been nothing short of extraordinary, offering the puppies a sense of security during a critical time in their lives.

Jennifer has always believed in the transformative power of fostering, and she has instilled this belief in her sons. Together, they have formed a strong, caring team, each playing a vital role in the puppies’ care—from feeding and cleaning to socializing and playing. The boys, who have grown up in this nurturing environment, have developed a deep understanding of compassion, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community.

While parting with the puppies is always bittersweet, they find comfort in knowing they’ve given each pup the best possible start in life and will go into a caring forever home.

Throughout the years, Jennifer, her sons, and Sadie have made a lasting impact on hundreds of puppies, giving them a second chance at life. Their selflessness, dedication, and love are truly inspiring, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they have done.
City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government City of Laguna Hills

08/21/2024

DAWG is sponsoring Captain's adoption fees and will provide a training package too! He's the shelter's longest current resident. Please share to any Husky lovers you know!

08/14/2024

Hello Ralph's shoppers! Did you know you can link your Ralph's Rewards Club Card to Dedicated Animal Welfare Group of Laguna Niguel & Mission Viejo for a portion of your grocery purchases to be donated to DAWG? Go to ralphs.com/i/community-contribution-program to enroll. All proceeds will go towards medical care for the animals at Mission Viejo Animal Services Center.

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Laguna Hills City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government

DAWG provides medical care and helping hands to comfort sick, injured, neglected and frightened anima

08/10/2024

Lots of families have added much joy to their lives this summer! Look at all these adoptions and happy faces. Congratulations Drogo, Kirby, Chief, Bumper, Peanut, Quail, Eleanor, Patch, Panther, Carl, Savanna, Ledecky, Comet, Baloo, Paul, Arthur, Hayes, Gizmo, Bella, Grant, Cersei, Lincoln, Taylor, Sophie, Wendy, Kendall and families. We are so glad you all found a perfect home!❤️

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Laguna Hills City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government

08/09/2024

DAWG will be providing spay/neuter surgeries and any other needed medical care for the puppies. Here is their story from Mission Viejo Animal Services Center:

"After 10 newborn puppies were thrown out of a vehicle and abandoned in the bushes, the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is reminding residents that when faced with relinquishing pets, the center has options.
The incident happened at 2:30 am on July 24 when a suspect tossed the puppies out the back of his vehicle into the bushes next to the road leading to the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center. Hours later, an animal services volunteer dog walker found the 3-week-old puppies in a vinyl puppy pool. Animal Services staff immediately brought the puppies to the shelter and began nursing them back to health before sending them to foster care.
The department launched an investigation, and surveillance video showed the suspect discarding the puppies before driving off. Though the vehicle’s license plate was not visible in the video, Mission Viejo Animal Services (MVAS) identified a possible suspect and found the vehicle the next day. Officers contacted the suspect and through an interview determined he had abandoned the newborn puppies. The mother dog was located, seized, and quickly reunited with all her puppies. MVAS is filing animal cruelty charges against the suspect with the Orange County District Attorney's Office. Fortunately, Mother Holly and her puppies are in good health and will be available for adoption soon."

08/04/2024

Spaying or neutering your pet is the best way to cut down on the number of homeless animals in our community. These routine medical procedures not only help control pet overpopulation, but they may also prevent medical and behavioral problems from developing, allowing your pet to lead a longer, healthier and happier life. Although progress has been made in recent years, millions of unwanted dogs and cats are euthanized each year, including puppies and kittens. The good news is that you can make a difference. By having your pet spayed or neutered, you will do your part to prevent the birth of unwanted animals.

Established health benefits include protection against some potentially serious diseases. Spaying female dogs and cats can prevent uterine infection and reduce the risk of breast cancer. Neutering males can eliminate their risk of testicular cancer and reduce their risk of developing enlarged prostate glands, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia.

DAWG pays for many spay & neuter surgeries each year, including all Mission For Home rescues. Mission Viejo Animal Services Center requires pets are spayed or neutered before being adopted, thanks to a state law enacted in the year 2000. In the next couple of weeks, DAWG will cover the cost of spay and neuter surgeries for 24 puppies at the shelter, like Kaa, Arthur & Pierce!

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government City of Laguna Hills

08/02/2024

The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is hosting a drive-through low-cost pet vaccination clinic from 8:30 to 10 am on Saturday, August 3 at 28095 Hillcrest.

Rabies vaccinations are $12 and other vaccines for dogs and cats are available at reduced rates. A $2 medical disposal fee is charged for each animal. Licenses and current rabies vaccinations are required for all dogs in Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita and Laguna Hills. Dogs should be on a leash and cats in carriers.

The clinic is a great opportunity to microchip your pet as well as renew a license.

You can also license your dog online via our website (https://ow.ly/ZZ6850SIxXz). For more information about our drive-through pet vaccine clinic, visit https://ow.ly/Y27r50SIxXv.

Dedicated Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Laguna Hills City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government

08/02/2024

DAWG is sponsoring one adoption fee so Patty Cakes and Lil Miss Muffet can stay together!
❤️🐶❤️🐶

07/28/2024

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center would like to introduce you to very talkative Captain! This is what they say about him:

"Captain is a 3-year-old male Siberian husky that is a perfect example of the breed.

Handsome, confident and freethinking, Captain is the perfect partner for a husky-lover seeking to add to the pack. Siberian huskies don't typically wait in eager anticipation for their owners' next command. They are free spirits and adventurists. Huskies can be jokesters, explorers and always a best friend. They enjoy chasing toys in the yard and being curled up by their people. They have a taste for mischief and mayhem and are not always easy to train but are still amazing dogs.

Captain is all of these things and more. He comes with a free training package so his new owners can ensure he will be a great addition to the home. Captain has been waiting for his new home since April, so his adoption fee, sponsored by DAWG, is only $20 to an approved applicant.

Meet Captain today at 28095 Hillcrest or call 949-470-3045 for more information."

City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Laguna Hills City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government

DAWG provides medical care and helping hands to comfort sick, injured, neglected and frightened anima

07/11/2024

DAWG & Mission Viejo Animal Services Center are great partners and save animal lives!

Did you know that Mission Viejo Animal Services (MVAS) has a program called "A Mission for Home," which allows MVAS to transfer high-risk pets from crowded shelters to be adopted locally? MVAS has been transferring animals from other agencies since 2004. This program began as an informal way to increase the number of adoptable animals available through MVAS. However, over time, the numerous benefits of this rescue program have become more evident:

Other animal shelters are overcrowded and must euthanize for space. By rescuing even a few animals from them, these other agencies are relieved of their animals, leaving more space and time for the remaining animals.
Our residents who are looking to adopt a new pet are given more options in terms of breed, temperament, and age when we rescue them from other shelters.
Our volunteers have more animals to interact and play with and walk.
The animals that are lucky enough to be transferred to MVAS receive extra attention and patience from staff and volunteers and are no longer at risk of being euthanized.

The rescue program is supported 100% by Dedicated Animal Welfare Group (DAWG), our non-profit fundraising group. All medical needs, spay/neuter surgeries, individualized training, and special diets are paid for by donations to DAWG. We work with local shelters such as Orange County, Riverside, Inland Valley, and SEAACA, and we have accepted animals from as far away as Humboldt County and Devore. Since its inception, there have been more than 2,160 dogs, cats, and rabbits rescued through "A Mission for Home." All these animals were given another chance to find loving homes because MVAS recognized their need to be saved.

City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government City of Laguna Hills

07/05/2024

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center has named Tere Dimperio as July Volunteer of the Month! Congratulations Tere and thank you for your commitment to the cats and kittens at the shelter.

"Our July volunteer of the month is Tere Dimperio who has devoted her time in the adult cattery since 2007. She was inspired by her daughter who was volunteering at the animal shelter near her college at the time. Tere has had cats all her life, so volunteering with cats seemed like a perfect fit. Once she started, she decided to ask her friend Diana to join her, and these two amazing ladies have been working together on the same shift for many years. Together, their teamwork, compassion, and tireless efforts have made a remarkable difference in the lives of so many felines in our care.

“I love working with the cats, especially the kittens, but I also enjoy meeting and finding the perfect match for shelter visitors,” Tere said.

She has also made new friends with other volunteers. In her free time, Tere enjoys walking with friends at the beach and trying new restaurants. She grew up by the beach, so being near the ocean is special to her. During baseball season, she enjoys watching her grandnephew play baseball with the Boston Red Sox system. He is in the AAA league now but hopefully will move up to the majors soon. In the past, she tutored students to help them with their homework and study habits. Her first student is now at UC Irvine in graduate school to be a pharmacist. Tere loves all cats but has a special affection for orange cats. She currently has three of them – all adopted from MVAS. They are 17, 8, and almost 3.

Thank you Tere for your consistent presence, whether it's comforting a nervous newcomer or finding the perfect home for a deserving kitty. You truly embody the spirit of our mission. We are incredibly fortunate to have you on our team."

City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government City of Laguna Hills

07/03/2024

Drogo is one unique, handsome boy. His coloring, not often seen, is called black smoke. While he appears to be very dark gray/black, his undercoat is very light gray, almost white. Volunteers at the shelter say he is a total love and his previous owners described him as a dog-like cat as he will follow adults around and will greet people at the door. He has lived with another cat and may enjoy a feline companion. He needs a little time to adjust to new environments, but once he meets you and knows you will offer affection, he will be leaning in for lots of love in no time! Come to Mission Viejo Animal Services Center if you would like to meet darling Drogo.

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government City of Laguna Hills

DAWG provides medical care and helping hands to comfort sick, injured, neglected and frightened anima

07/01/2024

Here are some friendly reminders about keeping your pets safe on the 4th of July courtesy of MVASC Pawprints ENewsletter!

"With summer temperatures and activities, the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is reminding pet owners to keep their pets safe in the heat and during the upcoming July 4th holiday.

Dogs and cats cool themselves differently than we do because they cannot sweat. Instead, they regulate their body heat through their mouths and tongues, which is a relatively inefficient method in extreme temperatures. That’s why your pets should remain indoors where it’s cool. Even a garage can get extremely hot, so pets should be kept in the house, preferably with the air conditioner set.

Never leave your pets in a parked car, not even for a minute. On a warm day, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly to dangerous levels. On an 85-degree day, for example, the temperature inside a car with the windows opened slightly can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes. After 30 minutes, the temperature will reach 120 degrees. Your pet may suffer irreversible organ damage or even die.

In addition to keeping pets safe from the heat, here are some tips for keeping them safe and healthy on the Fourth of July:

Keep them home - because fireworks are loud and can damage a dog's hearing, do not take your pet with you. Leave dogs indoors in a safe and secure room. Do not leave pets outside, even in a fenced yard as they could escape because they are so terrified by the noise.

Keep them safe indoors and leave a TV or radio on to help block out the sound of fireworks and make sure all windows are closed.

Keep proper ID on your pets and always have your dog’s tags on.

Microchip dogs and cats. If they do escape from your home, animal services can get them back to you with proper identification.

Human foods, 4th of July treats and alcoholic beverages can be harmful to your pet. Keep them in a place your pet cannot get to and do not allow others to give your pets human food as treats. Keep dog treats on hand instead.

Exercise your dog early in the day before fireworks begin.

Keep charcoal and glow sticks far from curious canines."

DAWG provides medical care and helping hands to comfort sick, injured, neglected and frightened anima

06/29/2024

Shelter staff say Trinity is a mellow girl with a big heart!💜

12/04/2023

Have you ever heard of a Khao Manee cat? Mission Viejo Animal Services Center recently received one and had a write-up about Muggy in the City of Mission Viejo Enewsletter. Here is the article if you missed it!

An extremely rare cat is waiting for a forever home at the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center.

Muggy is a 3-year-old Khao Manee, a rare breed from Thailand that translates to “white gem.”

In fact, the Khao Manee is believed to be the rarest feline breed, and the “odd-eyed” type is the rarest variety. Therefore, Muggy is incredibly rare since he has one blue and one green eye.

The breed is also known as the “diamond eye cat” because of its signature jewel-like eyes that are green, blue, and sometimes gold. These extraordinary and beautiful cats are known to be playful, friendly, curious and outgoing. They are devoted to their owners and are intelligent cats that have an endearing sense of naughtiness. Muggy has all those traits and more. He is extremely social and talkative, especially when he’s hungry.

If you’re looking for a lively and spirited cat to join your active household, Muggy is your match. Meet this special cat at 28095 Hillcrest or contact 949-470-3045.

12/04/2023

DAWG is sponsoring the adoption fees for lovely Iris. She is looking for a home where she can be socialized and loved because she had a rough start in life. Come to Mission Viejo Animal Services Center and meet Iris. You may be just the family she is looking for!

Iris is a 2-year-old Australian Kelpie/Siberian Husky mix that had a rough start at life.

Mission Viejo Animal Services received a report in August of a neglected dog kept in a crate. When our officer investigated, he confirmed that Iris was in fact kept in a crate all day. Although not technically illegal, this is obviously not ideal for a dog, so Iris was extremely under-socialized. The officer strongly suggested that the family relinquish the dog to us, which it did, and Iris has been waiting for her new family ever since. Because of her under-socialization, Iris is conflicted when meeting new people – she absolutely loves some folks but is terrified of others. She also guards her food probably because it was the one thing that gave her comfort while living in her crate. Iris has a lot of potential, but she needs experienced family members who will be patient while showing her what it is like to be loved and live a good life.

After her negative start to life, Iris deserves a loving, stable home where she will be spoiled. During our "Home for the Holidays" event, DAWG will sponsor this pup's adoption fees, so her approved applicant will pay only $20 to adopt her. If you want to meet Iris, call 949-470-3045 or visit https://ow.ly/2Pfu50QeCX3.

Dedicated Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Laguna Hills City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government

12/01/2023

A Home For The Holidays promotion begins today! All shelter pets will go home vaccinated, spayed or neutered and with flea control. Approved applicants will only pay the $20 microchip fee. If you're looking for the perfect companion this holiday season, check out cmvas.org, adopt. Click on the pet you would like to know more about and you'll find helpful notes about each pet from the shelter staff. We're very hopeful long time dog residents Frank, Iris, Lollipop and Poseidon & cats Billy, Leela, Muggy, Sansa and Yams will find homes during the promotion.
Mission Viejo Animal Services Center City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government City of Laguna Hills

11/29/2023

DAWG is sponsoring the Home For The Holidays promotion at Mission Viejo Animal Services Center beginning December 1st! Please share so that all the animals at the shelter will find a forever home this holiday season.

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Laguna Hills City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government

11/22/2023

We hope you and your pets have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!
It can be tempting for you and your guests to sneak the family pet a taste of the delicious meal, but common Thanksgiving dishes are full of ingredients that are toxic to dogs and cats or can cause digestive upset.
Keep your pet away from these dangerous festive foods:
Turkey: Avoid giving your pet turkey meat, especially fatty dark meat and skin (a small amount of unseasoned white meat is okay), and never give them any leftover bones. Not only are bones a choking hazard, but they can splinter inside your pet’s digestive tract and cause a trip to the emergency vet.
Garlic, onion, leeks, and chives: These seasonings are common in many Thanksgiving dishes and are toxic to dogs and cats – they can cause destruction of their red blood cells. Avoid giving your pet a bite of anything cooked with these ingredients, like green beans, potatoes, stuffing, or gravy.
Unbaked dough containing yeast: Unbaked yeast dough can cause a stomach blockage if eaten because the yeast in the dough makes it rise and expand. Plus, the natural fermentation of the yeast in your cat or dog’s stomach can cause alcohol poisoning. If you plan on baking some delicious dinner rolls for Thanksgiving, make sure to proof your dough somewhere that your pet can’t get to it, such as in a turned-off oven or microwave, not right on the counter where it’s often in your pet’s easy reach.
Desserts: Desserts like pies, fruitcakes, or cookies should be kept out of your pet’s reach as well. Many people know that chocolate is toxic for dogs and cats, but so are raisins, currants, and the popular sugar-substitute xylitol. Xylitol, even in small amounts, is toxic to dogs, so keep that slice of keto-friendly/diabetic-friendly/sugar-free pie to yourself.
Not only do you not want to give your pets any toxic foods, but you want to make sure they don’t decide to dive into the trash in search of yummy scraps. Ask family and guests to not feed the dog and make sure your trash can is secure.
Feed them Pet-Friendly Food Options Instead:
While the list of foods to avoid might seem overwhelming, there are a few great options for some pet-friendly Thanksgiving treats. Raw fruits and vegetables like baby carrots, green beans, apples, chunks of sweet potato, or pumpkin puree (not the sweetened, spiced pie filling) are great options.
Secure Your Home:
With family and friends coming and going over Thanksgiving weekend, make sure that your cat or dog doesn’t find their way out that open front door and get lost. Set up gates to help keep your dog away from the front door when guests come and go (as well as prevent the chaos of a jumping or barking dog at the door) or keep them on leash to prevent any door dashing. Keep your cat in a separate room with the door closed so they don't
escape into the great outdoors.

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government City of Laguna Hills

11/19/2023

UPDATE:

Bonded brothers, Dillinger & Hoover, were looking for a forever home after their family suffered some financial hardships. DAWG helped with their adoption fees so they could find a forever home together. Dillinger & Hoover found the perfect home! Look at all the beautiful smiles in this adoption photo. Congratulations Dillinger, Hoover and family. We're so happy for you all!

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center City of Mission Viejo, CA - Local Government City of Laguna Niguel - Government City of Aliso Viejo - Local Government City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government City of Laguna Hills