BARC :: Responsible Pet Ownership

3200 Carr Street, Houston, TX 77026. (713) 229-7300

Adopt 4L's

Responsible Pet Ownership Begins With the “4 L’s”

LICENSE, LEASH, LATCH, LOVE. This is what BARC calls the 4 L’s, we believe it, we practice it, and we promote it. The “4 L’s” are the basis of responsible pet ownership and the key to creating a safe, secure environments for your pets to live in.

License your pet. Leash your pet. Latch your gate. Last, but certainly not least, give your pet lots of love and attention.

BARC promotes safe animal human encounters. Here are some general tips about animal safety:

Do not pet unfamiliar animals.
Always ask the owner before petting an animal that is not yours, teach children this rule as well.
Never tease animals.
Do not surprise any animal.
Do not touch a sleeping animal.
Do not turn your back on a dog.
Do not bother a dog while it is eating.
Do not leave small children alone with a dog.
Do not stare into a dog's eyes.

Learn and watch for signs of aggressive and fearful animal behavior:

Ears are erect or back
Body is stiff
Tail is stiff or moving rapidly
Body is crouched with head down
Tail hangs down or is tucked between legs
Growling
Staring straight ahead
Hair standing on end

How to treat an animal bite:

The following precautions should be taken immediately when an animal bites or scratches a person:

Wash the wound with warm, soapy water.
Consult a physician and make sure you have a current tetanus shot
Confine the animal if possible, without endangering your safety. If you cannot contain the animal, make every attempt to find the owner of the animal or keep the animal in sight to help the animal control officer who will do the investigating.
Contact BARC's Rabies Suspect Investigations Section at 713 229-7300.
Report all animal bites:
- If you live inside the city limits of Houston call (713) 229-7300
- If you live in Harris County call (281)999-3191