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Westminster Village March 2018

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SOURCE<br />

Harris county Public Health Department, Veterinary Public Health (formerly<br />

called Harris County Animal Control), 612 Canino Road, Houston,<br />

Texas 77076, 281-999-3191, www.hcphes.org/vph.<br />

HARRIS COUNTY LEASH LAW<br />

Animals that are not properly restrained pose a threat to all our residents.<br />

While you may know your pet is friendly, an animal running at<br />

someone who is walking by is very scary for that person. Many children<br />

are afraid of animals and become frightened, which could result in the<br />

child getting hurt trying to avoid the animal.<br />

Harris County Animal Control advises, “All dogs and cats must be<br />

kept under restraint while in the unincorporated areas of Harris<br />

County, Texas. The custodian of a dog or cat is not authorized to<br />

have, harbor or keep any unlicensed dog or cat nor to allow any<br />

dog or cat to become a stray.”<br />

Restraint is defined as “the control of a dog<br />

or cat under the following circumstances:<br />

1. When it is controlled by a line or leash not more than six (6) feet in<br />

length, if the line or leash is held by a human being, who is capable of<br />

controlling or governing the dog or cat in question<br />

2. When it is within a fully enclosed vehicle<br />

3. When it is on the premise of the custodian and the animal does not<br />

have access to sidewalk or street.”<br />

While it may be nice to have your animal out in the yard while you work<br />

or play, it is against the law, unless the animal is properly restrained.<br />

Let’s all help keep our community a safe and comfortable place for<br />

all our residents by being responsible pet owners. This will not only<br />

protect anyone who may be walking or bicycling in the area, but also<br />

the pet owner who could be held legally responsible or possibly sued<br />

for failing to properly restrain their pet.<br />

Please remember that cats fall under the same laws as dogs and<br />

must be licensed and kept restrained when not on the premises of<br />

the owner. We’ve been told that spreading moth balls in flower beds<br />

might keep cats away.<br />

To make a complaint or report an animal that<br />

is not properly restrained please contact:<br />

Harris County Precinct #5, Contract #87: 281-463-6666<br />

Harris County Animal Control: 281-999-3191<br />

Harris County Health Department, Rabies/Animal Control Section<br />

2223 West Loop South, Houston, Texas 77027-3588<br />

www.countypets.com<br />

PREPARE FOR TAX SEASON <strong>2018</strong><br />

Here are 10 ways to get a jump start on your taxes now:<br />

• Figure out which forms you’ll need: There are many different tax forms<br />

for different financial situations. If you’re unsure which tax form to use,<br />

visit the IRS’s website or consult a professional.<br />

• Keep all receipts in the same place: If you’re someone who itemizes<br />

deductions, it is important to store all of your receipts together in the<br />

same place. If you lose any, it could cost you.<br />

• Store all tax returns together: Since we often have to reference the<br />

previous year’s return when preparing the current one, it’s a good idea<br />

to make sure you store them all in the same place.<br />

• Review/revise your W-4: If you’ve experienced any life changes from<br />

the previous year (adding or losing any family members), ask your<br />

employer if you can review your W-4. The IRS recommends doing this<br />

every year.<br />

• Do your research: If you plan to do your taxes on your own, make sure<br />

you educate yourself about the deductions you’re entitled to. If you<br />

plan to hire someone, check around and make sure they’re reputable.<br />

• Save your money: Unless you fill out the 1040EZ form and mail it in<br />

yourself, it’s going to cost you money to file your taxes.<br />

• Check your deductions: If you’ve had any major life events this year,<br />

you may be entitled to some sizable deductions. It’s a good idea to<br />

research all possible deductions to avoid overpaying your taxes.<br />

• Track all charitable donations: Charitable donations are tax-deductible,<br />

so if you have any monthly or one-off donations, make sure to<br />

keep track so that you can deduct these expenses from your taxes.<br />

From: USA today<br />

A/C & Heating<br />

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281-898-0965<br />

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CHECK-UP<br />

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE<br />

C. Paul Shubert, P.C.<br />

Certified Public Accountants<br />

Income Tax Preparation<br />

• INDIVIDUALS • CORPORATIONS • PARTNERSHIPS • ESTATES<br />

Weekend and Evening Appointments Available<br />

4654 Hwy. 6 N. Suite 101 281-556-1040<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

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