Lloyd Brewer Control Officer   Animal Control Dahlonega, GA 30533 Phone (706) 864-  E-mail

Irresponsible pet ownership and pet over-population are the main reasons that any animal control agency exists. Pets can provide significant benefits for families. When pets are not properly cared for, they can become not only a nuisance, but also a threat to the health and safety of neighbors. THE PRINCIPLES OF ANIMAL SAFETY LEAVE STRAY DOGS AND CATS ALONE, TELL THE NEAREST ADULT OF THEIR PRESENCE ALWAYS RESPECT A DOG'S TERRITORY "BE A TREE". STAND STILL AND NEVER RUN WHEN APPROACHED BY A DOG, OR: "ACT LIKE A LOG" IF KNOCKED DOWN OR LYING DOWN. THESE RULES APPLY TO WILD ANIMALS. EVEN THOUGH THEY APPEAR SOFT AND CUDDLY, THEY SHOULD BE LEFT ALONE. WHY DO DOGS BITE? If you have owned dogs or have been around them, you know that for years they have developed into fine house pets and as pets, they are also protectors of their property. Dogs are intelligent and since it is their property, they want to know what you are doing, just what your intentions are, and when you are leaving. Dogs are also protective toward their master, They are probably more stable than humans throughout their lifetime as to how they are going to act, but some of them do get cantankerous. Frequently, they will reflect the attitude of their master. Some of them are mean because they have been encouraged to be that way or perhaps children have teased them. So from then on BINGO! They challenge anyone that approaches. If you like dogs, chances are you will go for months or years without being bitten. But if you're afraid of dogs, we'll give you about 30 to 60 days to be bitten and you will probably get bitten on the back of the leg between the knee and the ankle. If it is any consolation, the bite will not really amount to much. Medical treatment form a doctor will probably be a tetanus shot, painting the bite with antiseptic, and sending you back to work.