Mission Viejo Animal Services Center

09/16/2024

09/11/2024

09/09/2024

Mission Viejo Animal Services has been assisting residents with sheltering pets at the Bell Tower Regional Community Center (22232 El Paseo in Rancho Santa Margarita) as well as reuniting evacuated residents with their pets.

If you need assistance, call 949-470-3045 and press 2.



City of Rancho Santa Margarita - Local Government

09/05/2024

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.

08/27/2024

🐾 Happy National Dog Day! 🐾

Today, we celebrate our furry best friends who bring so much joy and love into our lives! Whether your dog is a playful pup or a wise senior, take a moment today to give them some extra love, treats, and belly rubs. 🐶❤️

Thinking about adding a new member to your family? 🏠 Visit cmvas.org or stop by the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center to meet some of our adorable adoptable dogs looking for their forever homes. Let's make today special for every dog out there!

08/16/2024

07/31/2024

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

07/24/2024

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.

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

07/03/2024

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center will be closed on July 4 in observance of Independence Day.

Limited staff will be available for emergency calls only.

07/01/2024

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

For more information, visit cmvas.org

06/25/2024

Recently, Mission Viejo Animal Services responded to multiple reports about a Canadian Goose in Laguna Hills. The Goose, along with a female and four goslings, had settled in a local creek. The male Goose had fishing line tangled around both legs, impairing his ability to walk, though he could still fly, making rescue attempts challenging. Senior Animal Control Officer Stewart made several efforts to approach and earn the Goose's trust, but the Goose would fly away each time. Eventually, Officer Stewart found the Goose asleep on a grassy area and successfully captured him. The Goose was then taken to a veterinary hospital, where the fishing line was safely removed, and it was confirmed that he had no permanent injuries. With full mobility restored, the Goose was reunited with his family without further issues.

This incident highlights the importance of properly disposing fishing lines. An improperly discarded fishing line can cause serious harm to wildlife, entangling animals and restricting their movement. By ensuring fishing lines are disposed of correctly, we can help protect local wildlife and prevent similar situations in the future. Even when we dispose the fishing line in trash bins it still goes to the landfill which creates the same hazards for wildlife, unless it is cut into small pieces. For more information visit the California Fishing Line Recycling Program at https://dbw.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=29426.

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

06/24/2024

Summer is a great time to enjoy fun in the sun but sometimes it may be uncomfortable even dangerous for pets and people. Follow our tips to keep everyone in your family healthy during the heat.

Practice basic summer safety:

⚠️⚠️NEVER LEAVE YOUR PETS IN A PARKED CAR⚠️⚠️
It doesn't matter if the car is running and air conditioner turned on, don't ever leave your pet in the vehicle, even for a second. On a hot day, the temperature inside a car can quickly increase to deadly levels. On an 85-degree day, for example, the temperature inside a car with the windows partially open can quickly reach 102 degrees. The temperature will reach 120 degrees after 30 minutes. Your pet could sustain irreparable organ damage or die. If you see a dog inside a car in hot weather within one of our service cities, call us immediately at 949-470-3045.

🐕Limit exercise on hot days
When exercising your pet, use caution and adjust the intensity and duration of the workout to the temperature. On extremely hot days, limit exercise to the early morning or late evening hours and be especially cautious with pets with white-colored ears, which are more prone to skin cancer as well as short-nosed pets, which often have problems breathing. Asphalt gets hot and might burn your pet's paws, so if possible, walk your dog on grass. Always have water on hand to keep your dog from becoming dehydrated.

Know that animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.

❌Don't rely on a fan
Pets respond differently to heat than humans do. Dogs, for instance, sweat primarily through their feet and fans can't cool off pets as effectively as they do people.

💧Provide ample shade and water
When your pet is outside, make sure it has plenty of fresh, cold water and is protected from the sun and heat. When possible, add ice to water during heat waves. Provide ample shade. Tarps, tree shade and canopies are great because they don't restrict air flow. A doghouse does not provide comfort from the heat; in fact, it exacerbates it.

🍧Cool your pet inside and out
Make a batch of quick and simple DIY pupsicles for dogs. Plenty of dog-friendly recipes are available online. Always provide water whether your pets are inside or outside with you.

06/14/2024

In light of the many coyote encounters posted on various social media platforms, the City is reminding residents to report such encounters directly to the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center to ensure coyote activity is tracked and appropriate actions are taken. If you encounter a coyote, report it online at https://ow.ly/5X4V50Sj6aK.

Read more information and key tips for safety in areas with coyote activity at https://ow.ly/emPf50Sj6aL

05/31/2024

Are you passionate about dogs and want to make a difference in their lives? Mission Viejo Animal Services is seeking dedicated and experienced dog walker volunteers to join our team. If you have formal training and a love for our four-legged friends, we would love to hear from you!

Why volunteer with us?
🐶 Make a difference: Your time and skills can significantly improve the lives of our shelter dogs, providing them with much-needed exercise, socialization, and affection.
📚 Put your skills to use: Utilize your formal training and experience to help us ensure the best care and handling for our dogs.
🤝 Community and camaraderie: Join a team of like-minded animal lovers and make new friends while contributing to a great cause.

What we're looking for:
- Experienced individuals: We are seeking volunteers who have formal prior experience walking and handling dogs. Formal training includes candidates who have formal training in animal care or training, dog behavior, or related fields.
- Commitment: Regular and reliable volunteers who can commit to a scheduled one 3-hour shift per week and a one year minimum commitment.
- Compassion and patience: A genuine love for animals and the ability to handle dogs of various breeds and temperaments with care and patience.

Responsibilities:
- Walk dogs of different sizes and energy levels.
- Monitor the dogs' behavior and report any concerns to shelter staff.
- Ensure the safety and well-being of the dogs during walks.

How to apply:
If you meet the criteria and are ready to make a positive impact on the lives of our shelter dogs, fill out the volunteer application form on our website at cmvas.org.

Join us in giving our shelter dogs the love and care they deserve while they await their forever homes. Your time and expertise can make a world of difference!

🐕❤️🐾

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

05/15/2024

In a display of community spirit, an animal supporter residing in the Palmia Community of Mission Viejo recently gave Mission Viejo Animal Services a donation of 25 pounds of food and an assortment of 40 new toys. Moreover, this individual issued a heartening challenge to her fellow Palmians: if they collectively contribute an additional 200 items by the end of Easter, she pledges a remarkable $2,500 donation to the Dedicated Animal Welfare Group (DAWG). The residents of Palmia rose to the challenge and donated 138 pounds of dry food, 374 cans of wet food, 118 new toys, and 23 bags of treats for both dogs and cats, showcasing the community's commitment to the well-being of animals in need. Supporting this endeavor is the contribution of MVAS volunteer Trish, a member of our community who dedicates herself to the welfare of our furry companions.

The results of this collective effort will be channeled into MVAS and DAWG's collaborative rescue initiative, "Mission for Home," which strives to provide medical care for orphaned animals, facilitating their journey toward recovery and eventual adoption into loving homes. MVAS and DAWG extend their heartfelt gratitude to the resident who initiated this challenge, as well as to the entire Palmia community for their support.

Indeed, there's an undeniable sense of fulfillment when a challenge not only meets, but surpasses expectations underscoring the boundless capacity for kindness and generosity that resides within our community.

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

05/02/2024

Thanks to the community's generosity, the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center donation storage is full. We are no longer able to accept any donations until further notice.

We are still in need of canned wet pet food (dry food is not needed). Pet food donations can be dropped off from noon to 4 pm seven days a week.

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

05/02/2024

The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is hosting a drive-through low-cost pet vaccination clinic from 8:30 to 10 am on Saturday, May 11 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 at https://ow.ly/wmTi50Rv1I7. For more information, visit https://ow.ly/UPl250Rv1I6.

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center 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

04/22/2024