LEMHI COUNTY, ID (KIFI) – As we were working on the Lemhi County Humane Society story, many people in Salmon mentioned another issue to us.
Shelters were increasingly returning pets to irresponsible owners. As a result, the number of free-ranging dogs and cats roaming the streets is increasing.
One resident said he had nearly run over the animal several times in recent months. So we decided to ask city officials how much of a problem this really is.
It turns out they don't have an animal control officer anymore. They lost that position due to budget cuts a few years ago. Now that job is in the hands of the Salmon Police Department.
Lt. Stratton said officers are doing their best, but it's not enough.
“There are dogs running around all the time. So it's a constant problem. We have a leash law for salmon, but a lot of people don't abide by it. And we have dogs running around. “They walk around. These people don't know dogs, and dogs don't know people, and some people overreact and dogs see people as a threat.” And people think that dogs are a threat, so how do you catch someone who is being bitten?”
Lt. Stratton said he typically receives calls about animal abuse and stray animals every other day. They are working to offer more incentives to pet owners who let their animals roam around town. They hope this will help keep the roads cleaner.
