Marshall County has been battling at-large animals in the community, more specifically, dogs that have been dumped. The issue is these dogs run rampant, tearing up residents' property, and forming packs with other wild dogs. Once an animal switches to 'pack mode', they tend to attack anybody in their path.
The MCSO has addressed the issue and figured a way to possibly contain the at-large pet population explosion. The law officials' hands are typically tied when it comes to animal control because they must follow Oklahoma statutes regarding animal controls since the county's population is less than 250,000.
Legally, animals can only be seized in cases of cruelty, neglect, court orders or when an animal's owner is arrested andhasnobodyelsetocarefor it. Another significant issue was finding housing for the at-large animals, specifically livestock.
To curb the at-large animal issue, MCSO partnered with the City of Madill Animal Shelter to house some of the animals. Their Certified Animal Control Officer will assist when necessary.
Yow said he plans on talking with Kingston to see if they can strike up a similar agreement.