City of Cassville Escalating Control of Nuisance and Vicious Dogs

Assistance Requested to Identify Packs and Unsafe Situations An increase in complaints and concern for public safety have led the City to take an aggressive attitude toward unidentified or nuisance dogs and dog packs running loose in the Cassville city limits. The City would like to remind residents that Cassville city ordinances prohibit pet owners from owning vicious animals in the city limits or any animal that creates a nuisance. The City requests assistance from citizens in controlling their animal’s conduct and movement in order to avoid conflict with other residents, neighbors and pedestrians. “We always make a best effort to notify an owner the first time we encounter an unidentified or problem dog,” said Police Chief Dana Kammerlohr. “A warning is issued the first time we encounter a nuisance animal, if we can locate the owner. If there is a second complaint, we impound the dog. It is important to note that the City only has the capacity to impound five animals at a time.” A pet owner has five business days to claim an animal after impoundment, and pay impoundment fees. Animal owners are reminded that their dogs must have a collar with the owner’s name and address and a current rabies vaccination tag from a veterinarian. To review the City ordinances regarding owner responsibility for maintaining animals in a Cassville residence, pet owners are encouraged to go to the City’s website at www.CassvilleMo.com. At the bottom of the right column, click on: Title II. Public Health, Safety and Welfare, and continue to Chapter 210 – Animals. “We strongly encourage pet owners to be responsible to both their animals and the community,” added Kammerlohr. The enforcement of the City’s animal ordinances is to protect the public health, safety and welfare and the cooperation of pet owners is appreciated. To report animal concerns, call Barry County Dispatch at 417-847-4911.