introducing dogs of the 9th ward

As a devoted supporter -- and a devoted resident -- of the 9th Ward of New Orleans, I have worked in various capacities to improve the quality of life in the 9th Ward for years. That passion combined with my love of dogs to create Dogs of the 9th Ward.

I aim to improve living conditions for both the human and canine populations of the 9th Ward. The 9th Ward is still struggling to rebuild and repopulate a full four years after Hurricane Katrina brought catastrophic flooding to most of the area in August, 2005. A tremendous number of abandoned and vacant buildings, damaged infrastructure, and decades of political neglect show that the 9th Ward is one of the most under served areas of the city.

These same factors also make it a popular dumping ground for unwanted dogs. In addition, since vacant buildings offer dogs shelter, it is a haven for strays. There are also a number of dog owners in the area without the knowledge and resources to provide adequate care for their dogs. All of these things lead to a variety of problems for the human and canine populations of the various 9th Ward neighborhoods:

• some strays carry infectious diseases that can be transmitted to pets and people
• some strays may be more likely to bite out of fear and lack of socialization
• stray dogs have formed packs, threatening other pet dogs as well as cats and children
• strays are living in abandoned buildings which are prone to collapse
• many of these dogs are sick, malnourished, or injured
• almost 100% of these dogs are intact (not spayed/neutered) and thus breeding and increasing the magnitude of the problem

As you can see, this issue is one of animal rights, public health, and safety. My dedication is to all the human and canine residents of the area, and I am working to make this historic part of New Orleans safer and healthier -- and thus more ripe for rebirth -- for all.