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Sylacauga city leaders have tabled a controversial proposal to shoot stray dogs following public backlash and calls for more humane solutions. The plan, which was not voted on during the last city council meeting, involved hiring a private company to work with the city and local veterinarians to manage the overpopulation of stray dogs through sedation. However, part of the proposal included shooting the dogs with a .22 caliber rifle, which sparked outrage among residents on social media, who demanded a more humane approach. The proposal stemmed from public safety concerns over a pack of dogs that had been roaming parts of the city. Sister station WVTM’s news crew saw at least 10 dogs roaming that area near a busy shopping center. People had also put out animal traps and food there. Sylacauga Mayor Matt Hubbard emphasized the city’s stance against shooting stray dogs despite the overwhelming population.”The problem out on 280 is just larger than one animal control officer can manage or handle by him or herself. And now, as far as working on other options, yes, we’re currently trying to iron out some details, partnering with the Greater Birmingham Humane Society,” Hubbard said. Hubbard said the city has started a spay and neuter clinic for residents’ pets.The City Council is scheduled to meet next week to discuss additional plans.
Sylacauga city leaders have tabled a controversial proposal to shoot stray dogs following public backlash and calls for more humane solutions.
The plan, which was not voted on during the last city council meeting, involved hiring a private company to work with the city and local veterinarians to manage the overpopulation of stray dogs through sedation. However, part of the proposal included shooting the dogs with a .22 caliber rifle, which sparked outrage among residents on social media, who demanded a more humane approach.
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The proposal stemmed from public safety concerns over a pack of dogs that had been roaming parts of the city.
Sister station WVTM’s news crew saw at least 10 dogs roaming that area near a busy shopping center. People had also put out animal traps and food there.
Sylacauga Mayor Matt Hubbard emphasized the city’s stance against shooting stray dogs despite the overwhelming population.
“The problem out on 280 is just larger than one animal control officer can manage or handle by him or herself. And now, as far as working on other options, yes, we’re currently trying to iron out some details, partnering with the Greater Birmingham Humane Society,” Hubbard said.
Hubbard said the city has started a spay and neuter clinic for residents’ pets.
The City Council is scheduled to meet next week to discuss additional plans.
