Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
Containing and leashing dogs is required by city ordinance in Kimball. Recently many citizens have complained about errant dogs. Seen here are three Kimball youth leading by example. From left, Katie Kilgore, Kaitlyn Cole and Jasmine Gawith with Riggs.
Safe spaces to walk in Kimball seem to be in short supply as more and more local walkers are taking to Facebook to complain about errant dogs.
Complaints range from the approach of an unknown dog to outright attacks and some report that they are on solo walks while others have their own dog(s) on a leash.
In addition to their own personal safety, many are concerned for the safety of their pets, as well as, that of the animal at large.
Walking on County roads is not a safe alternative either, as Jamie Carpenter reported a near-attack while doing just that.
Kimball Police Department dispatcher Katherine Terrill said that though they have not seen an increase in calls, dogs at large is an ongoing concern.
Kimball Sheriff's Office dispatcher Darlene Tiner agreed, saying this has been a continual problem for years, but with the advent of social media, more people are hearing about it.
As for what the Sheriff's Office can do, not much, Tiner said that it is up to the Kimball Police Department as the county has no laws governing errant dogs.
Kimball City Ordinance deems it unlawful for any animals to run at large in public. Dogs, therefore, must be restrained by a leash, in an enclosure or under direct control when in the owner's presence.
According to Terrill, each call is taken on a case-by-case basis and officers respond as early and often as possible. When officers can locate the dog at large, and if they can capture it safely, it will be taken to impound.
"That can get pretty expensive for the owners," Terrill said.
According to the Prairie Animal Hospital, the daily fees for impounded dogs is $18.55. That price goes up if the owners of impounded dogs cannot provide proof of rabies vaccinations, as that too must be done prior to releasing dogs to owners.
The City of Kimball also has an ordinance defining dangerous dogs as any that: has killed a human being; has inflicted injury on a human being that requires medical treatment; or has killed a domestic animal without provocation.
"If it is a vicious dog, it will be priority," Terrill added.
