Humane Society demands action on animal control failures

In a recent city commission meeting, representatives from the Stevens County Humane Society raised serious concerns regarding the city’s animal control practices and the management of local ordinances. The discussion centered on allegations of improper animal dumping on city property, highlighting a lack of accountability and oversight.

Shelby Boboski, the executive director of the Texas Humane Legislative Network, emphasized that the city’s actions violated existing animal laws, calling for reprimands rather than criminal charges for those involved. She criticized the city for setting a poor example, which undermines the ability of the county attorney to prosecute similar offenses by residents.

The Humane Society also reported distressing incidents at the local shelter, including the death of a newborn puppy due to negligence by weekend staff. This incident, along with the shelter's overall decline in reputation, was attributed to the city’s hiring practices, which have favored inexperienced employees over qualified candidates.

Concerns were raised about the city’s recent changes to animal ordinances, which have led to an increase in abandoned and dangerous animals. The Humane Society argued that the city has shifted its responsibilities onto the county without proper communication or support, leaving residents without guidance on managing local wildlife and livestock.

In response to these issues, the Humane Society proposed the formation of a committee that would include city officials and members of the Humane Society to collaboratively address the ongoing animal control crisis. They stressed the need for a unified approach to restore the shelter’s integrity and improve animal welfare in the community.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for the city to reevaluate its animal control policies and practices to better serve both the community and its animals.