SCIOTO COUNTY, OH — From Wheelersburg to Rarden, complaints about loose and aggressive dogs keep coming in, even as Ohio’s tougher dog law — Avery’s Law — is now in effect.
In two separate calls, residents reported ongoing problems with neighbors’ dogs, raising concerns about safety, livestock losses, and enforcement.
🚪 Chased Into Garage in Wheelersburg
In Wheelersburg, a woman called 911 after reporting that three dogs from a neighboring property were acting aggressively toward her.
According to the report, the dogs were behind a secure fence, but the situation escalated when one of the dogs allegedly chased her into her garage.
She was advised to contact authorities again if the dogs got loose, and to follow up with the Scioto County Dog Warden’s Office.
🐔 Chickens Attacked in Rarden
Meanwhile in Rarden, another resident contacted the sheriff’s office with a familiar complaint.
The caller said a neighbor’s dog keeps getting loose, attacking his chickens, and even stealing property.
He told deputies the neighbors have already been made aware of leash laws, but the problem continues.
The deputy advised the man to follow up with the dog warden for further action.
⚖️ Avery’s Law Now in Effect — But Problems Persist
These incidents come as Avery’s Law is now in effect in Ohio, giving authorities more tools to deal with dangerous or uncontrolled dogs.
Under the law, owners can face stronger penalties if their dogs:
- Repeatedly get loose
- Threaten or chase people
- Kill livestock or pets
Authorities can also take steps toward seizing dogs sooner in repeat cases.
❗ Same Complaints, Same Challenges
But on the ground, the reality hasn’t changed overnight.
Residents are still reporting:
- Dogs running loose
- Animals being killed
- Ongoing neighbor disputes
And in many cases, they’re still being told to contact the dog warden for follow-up, highlighting the continued strain on animal control resources.
With the local dog shelter already overcrowded, each new complaint adds pressure to a system trying to balance enforcement with limited space.