MISSION VIEJO : Temporary Shelter for Animals Moves

Starting today, people hoping to adopt a stray or find a lost pet can go to a city-rented kennel in Irvine.

While waiting for a permanent shelter to be built, the city has moved its temporary quarters from a facility in Santa Ana to the Irvine Animal Care Center, 15129 Sand Canyon Road.

City officials said the new, closer location will save time for animal control officers transporting strays. Easier access to the city shelter could also result in more animals being adopted, a goal that will also be bolstered by an existing, aggressive placement program run by the Irvine center, city officials said.

The city will rent a portion of the Irvine shelter, which will be staffed by Mission Viejo animal control employees and volunteers.

On Feb. 17, a low-cost rabies vaccination clinic will be held, sponsored by the city, the Friends of Mission Viejo Animals and the Southern California Veterinary Medical Assn.

Pet owners can bring animals to Alicia Park for vaccinations from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Rabies shots will cost $4, and DHLPP vaccinations, which help prevent diseases such as distemper and certain viral infections, will cost $9.

For more information about Mission Viejo animal control services, which include picking up strays and licensing pets, call (714) 348-2045.