Dogs running loose can be expensive for owners
Staff writer
Marion recently set aside $2,049.93 to pay Animal Health Center for boarding for stray dogs picked up and sent there but not claimed by an owner.
“The situation is in court at the moment,” city administrator Brian Wells said. “Last we knew the owner has interest in getting the dogs back.”
The $2,049.93 was the amount the city paid in its ongoing dog case.
If after three days loose dogs are not claimed by owners, the city is unable to identify the owner or the owner refuses to claim the dog, it may be sold, euthanized, or otherwise disposed of.
“The keeper of the dogs will be notified,” Wells said,.
However, a select few choose to not claim them.
Pet owners face a stiff price to get their pet back when taken to the veterinarian.
If an impounded dog has a current tag attached to its collar or if the city knows who keeps the dog, the keeper shall be notified in writing at least 24 hours before the dog is disposed of.
The city fines the owner $50 for allowing the animal to be at large.
A charge of $20 per day for up to three days also is charged for boarding. The animal could be euthanized or put up for adoption.
Additionally, the city also charges a $20 pickup fee and vaccination fees for dogs not up to date on rabies shots, which must be given every two years.
Most often, the city is able to reach the pet owner, who pays the fine and other fees, Wells said.