Humane Society has good news

The Humane Society of Ventura County said this week that there was an increase of more than 9 percent in the total number of cats and dogs who were spayed or neutered at the shelter in 2007.

The highest percentage was in the number of dogs, with more than 130 additional animals being fixed, bringing the total for dogs to 888 in 2007.

"This is an excellent trend," said shelter director Jolene Hoffman. "When this happens, we always see a decrease in puppies being put up for adoption.

"Now is the time to prevent another year of discarded kittens and puppies before the mating season begins in spring," she continued. "The more we can do to stop these pregnancies, the fewer animals will be left to be euthanized. By June, the shelters are filled with young puppies and kittens that people cannot keep. By bringing in a cat or dog to be treated, people will be preventing the elimination of more innocent animals."

In 2007, 983 cats and 888 dogs were treated. This was a total of 168 more animals than were brought in during 2006. The shelter offers lowcost/no-cost spay/neuter treatments to the public at its clinic.

Community members who believe in preventing unwanted kittens and puppies are asked to support the shelter's efforts in offering free treatment by donating to the Spay/Neuter Fund at the Humane Society of Ventura County.

Donations may be sent to Humane Society of Ventura County, Spay/Neuter Fund, 402 Bryant St., Ojai, CA 93023.