Jack10052016

cover story
DON’T JUST SHOP,
ADOPT
AT ACPS
BY COURTNEY CLARK
jack
Riverside’s Animal Care and Protective Services has been living up to
its name since its opening in Riverside in 2009.
Operating since March under Division Management Consultant
Jim (The Chief) Crosby, ACPS takes in dogs and cats that have been
abandoned, rescued or left to wander the streets and alleys of the Cultural Core
as strays. Its dedicated staff and volunteers provide animals with all of their
veterinary and behavioral needs.
And thanks to Friends of Jacksonville Animals, ACPS is
even able to offer critical surgeries to animals in need —
such as dogs that have been hit by cars or those suffering
from heartworms.
Although ACPS gives a lot of time and care, the
facility wouldn’t be able to function without help from the
community.
“The biggest challenge here is trying to change human behavior
and to teach people to be responsible,” Crosby says.
Here are a few things you can do to help the shelter and the pets in our area.
1Spay and Neuter
“Number one [is to]
spay and neuter your
animal,” Crosby advises.
According to the American
Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals’ website,
doing so not only has medical
benefits – such as lowering the
risk of cancer and infections –
but behavioral ones as well. Pets
may be better behaved and less
likely to run away from home.
Additionally, if your dog does
get out, there is no risk of future
stray pups if Roscoe is feeling
raunchy.
2Food, Water
and Shelter
“Animals are not
disposable,” Crosby says.
Sometimes it’s not a case of
intended cruelty, either.
The Chief explains that
some pet owners don’t
realize how hot it can
be outside for a dog
left in a backyard.
Fortunately, there are
educational resources
at ACPS to ensure that
pets are taken care of properly.
4
jack | OCTOBER 5-18, 2016
CONTINUED ON PAGE 22