It's summer when everyone wants to spend time outdoors; however, itchy mosquito bites may be a problem in your neighborhood. The Williamson County and Cities Health District has tips to help you enjoy your summer in the great outdoors. Don’t cook up a breeding ground for mosquitoes - follow the 3Ds to keep mosquitoes away:

•    Drain: Empty standing water containers at least once per week
•    Dress: Wear long sleeves, long pants, and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
•    Defend: Properly apply an EPA registered repellent such as DEET, picaridin, or IR 3535

The dogs of the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter have moved to a temporary shelter in the old Georgetown Livestock Show Barn located in San Gabriel Park at 425 E Morrow Street. The show barn, nicknamed the "Canine Corral," has an adoption lobby, adoption kennels, an intake area for lost dogs and owner surrenders (by appointment), and an area for animal health technicians to care for the dogs. The Canine Corral is open the same hours as the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter Monday through Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. To view adoptable dogs, click here. 

Feeling stressed, depressed, or tired? The natural environment may be the best medicine. Studies suggest the natural environment improves mental health conditions by alleviating stress, depression, and fatigue. It also supports attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Alzheimer’s and improves cognitive function. The Williamson County Parks Department fully understands that natural open spaces are necessary for mental, as well as physical health and wellness. With more than 27 miles of trails through the county’s parks, trails and preserve system, there are many options to not only improve mental health, but also enjoy a refreshing walk, run or bike ride for National Trails Day on Saturday, June 2!

Judge Stacey Mathews of the 277th District Court was appointed to serve on the newly established Judicial Commission on Mental Health. The commission, the first body jointly created by the Texas Supreme Court and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, will examine best practices in the administration of civil and criminal justice for persons with mental illness.  Texas’ two high courts have appointed 31 members, including Judge Mathews, to lead the newly established Judicial Commission on Mental Health.

The WilCo Wellness Alliance invites you and your friends and family to take part in our Community Health Survey. It will take approximately five minutes of your time and is completely confidential. Your answers will inform how they research and prioritize health issues in our communities. Surveys in English and Spanish are available here.