Proposed Mercer County leash ordinance tabled again

Jan. 10—PRINCETON — A first reading for a proposed county leash law was delayed Tuesday as members of the Mercer County Commission spoke about possible options for regulating dogs that are allowed to run loose.

A county leash ordinance which is based on a Raleigh County ordinance was proposed last year by Commissioner Greg Puckett. The ordinance has supporters who told the commission that they deal constantly with roaming dogs that harass them and their pets. Owners of farm dogs and hunting dogs said they were concerned about how this ordinance would impact their animals, so it was modified.

County Commission President Bill Archer said he has been looking a dog warden system which is used in Monongalia County. These wardens help law enforcement by developing cases when dogs are attacking people and causing other problems.

"If we were to go the dog warden route, we would eventually have to have a leash law because the state itself does not have a leash law; but if we were to go the dog warden route to take care of this, the county commission would be the responsible entity for it," Archer said.

The cases would go through the magistrate court, Archer said.

One concern is whether the Mercer County Animal Shelter would have the capacity to house dogs brought in due to the leash ordinance. Director Stacey Harman said the shelter is now short three people. One has been interviewed, and the shelter is looking to hire another two.

"We've had some interviews but the big problem is the starting wage is a little bit more than the minimum wage and I've actually had people quit and go to fast food because they do get paid more, so that is a big issue," she said.

Puckett asked Harman how many dogs and cats the shelter had the euthanize last year. Harman said later that the shelter does not euthanize to make space. About 82 dogs and 136 cats were euthanized last year. Euthanasia is only for animals that are seriously sick, injured or aggressive. These animals are examined by a veterinarian who then gives the shelter their recommendation.

"Unfortunately, we had a lot hit by cars last year," she said, adding that these dogs and cats often have broken backs, head traumas and other serious injures which cannot be treated. There have also animals with the disease parvo which were not helped by treatment.

Chief Deputy A.P. Christian said he would need to study the dog warden system. Deputies are busy with their present call load and do not have time to chase down stray dogs.

Puckett moved that the first reading be tabled until the commission's March 19 meeting.

— Contact Greg Jordan at gjordan@bdtonline.com

Contact Greg Jordan at gjordan@bdtonline.com