DC Dog Shelter offers residents free spay/neuter services DC "To stamp out the significant problem of puppies and kittens flooding animal shelters each year, the Washington Animal Rescue League (WARL) is offering to provide free spays and neuters for any cat or dog with a D.C. resident as guardian, regardless of income level. The spays/neuters will take place from September 16 - September 20, 2002 at the League's on-site Medical Center... Guardians of dogs and cats eight weeks of age and older, wishing to take advantage of this offer, should call (202) 726-2273 for an appointment. [Washington Animal Rescue League via Yahoo.com/biznews]

"Spaying and neutering can actually lengthen a pet's life, by preventing prostate cancer in male and uterine infections and cancers in female pets. The Washington Animal Rescue League is a non-profit organization with a mission to find permanent, loving homes for adoptable homeless animals while providing them quality care. Since 1996, the League has also operated a full-service, low-cost Medical Center for the companion animals of low-income area residents, making it the only facility of its kind on the East Coast. Founded in 1914, WARL is the oldest animal shelter in the metropolitan area. The League is located at 71 Oglethorpe Street, NW, Washington, DC." [Washington Animal Rescue League]

Having visited the WARL, we think it's a top shelter: it's no-kill, clean and well-staffed. The WARL has a large staff of dedicated volunteers who work with residents and vets to bring pets into the homes they deserve.

Off-leash dog park opens in Baltimore MD "About 75 canines, from Chihuahuas to Doberman pinschers, ran around in Canton yesterday at the official opening of Baltimore's first park for dogs." The dog park has areas designated for large dogs and for small dogs and many welcome it as an urban improvement worth moving for. "This is like Starbucks for dogs" [Baltimore Sun]