From loose pets to neighborhood complaints, local officers spent much of the weekend handling calls about dogs — another sign of the mounting strain on Scioto County’s overcrowded shelter and overworked animal control officers.
Friday: Dogs on the Loose
A woman called 911 to report her neighbor’s dogs repeatedly escaping and trying to attack her nephews. She told police it was an ongoing issue. Officers spoke with the owner, who admitted her dog often got out and promised to buy a new collar and chain. She was reminded of her obligation to keep animals contained and warned about possible penalties from the dog warden.
Saturday Morning: Barking Disturbance
Police were dispatched to a Southside neighborhood after multiple residents complained about constant barking. The owner was advised to quiet the animals and warned that further complaints could result in citations.
Sunday: Stray in the Street
Just after noon, officers responded to calls about a stray dog running loose near Chillicothe Street. By the time they arrived, the animal had already darted through traffic and disappeared. Police reminded residents that in situations like this, the safest bet is to contact the dog warden immediately rather than attempt to catch the dog themselves.
Why It Matters 🏚️🐾
Each of these incidents seems minor on its own, but together they paint a picture of a community struggling with too many dogs and too few resources. The Scioto County Dog Shelter is already packed, and animal control officers are stretched thin responding to calls countywide. Loose or unrestrained pets not only risk injury to themselves but can also:
Cause car accidents when running into streets.
Bite or attack neighbors, leaving owners legally liable.
Spread disease or injury to other pets and people.
Add to the already overwhelming shelter population when picked up.
What You Can Do ✅
Contain your pets: Invest in secure fencing, collars, or runs.
Spay and neuter: Reduces strays, overpopulation, and aggression.
Register your dog: Licenses help return lost pets quickly and fund shelter operations.
Don’t ignore strays: Call animal control instead of letting the problem linger.
