LOOSE DOGS Ive seen quite a few posts from people that have - TopicsExpress

LOOSE DOGS Ive seen quite a few posts from people that have taken in dogs running loose. No collar and no ID tag, so no way to contact the owner. They post that they have this dog, asking if anyone knows who it belongs to. A day or so goes by and then they post they have let the dog go because they cant keep it. Floyd is a wonderful place to live and many people, present company included, have migrated here. However, people that are not familiar with the ways of country life dont understand things they encounter after living here awhile. Out in the country, its a common practice to let dogs run free. Sometimes, these dogs cause problems, but not often. Most of the time, loose dogs are just out on patrol. I admire people with compassionate hearts that are concerned about the welfare of animals. However, one must understand that not all owners of loose dogs are on Facebook and will find a post about a loose dog. If you leave the dog alone, the probability is high it will go home. If you take possession of the dog, it cant go home. Now the owner is worrying about the dog. Has it been killed on the highway? Has someone shot it? If youre concerned about a loose dog, call Floyd County Animal Control. Give them a brief description of the dog and the last known location. Let them take care of it. There are exceptions to every rule. If the dog is emaciated or wounded, thats a different story. But if the dog does not appear to be so, leave it alone. One more thing to consider when approaching a loose dog: Keep in mind the dog could go from apparently friendly to agitated and vicious in a nanosecond. Furthermore, the dog could be in the beginning stages of Rabies. Floyd County residents are very welcoming to outsiders. But if youre not familiar with the ways of country life, you might want to ask someone that is for advice on how to handle a country life situation before taking matters in your own hands.