JEFFERSON COUNTY – After 16 dogs were found over the weekend near Stump Creek, neighbors are left wondering where they came from.
There’s no word yet on who abandoned those dogs, but 6News learned Jefferson County is struggling when it comes to enforcing animal neglect and cruelty laws.
There’s only one dog law enforcement officer for the county.
The same officer covers Elk County, which makes it difficult when deciding who has the authority to actually enforce the laws.
6 News spoke to Jamie Carlson who is designated as the dog warden for Jefferson and Elk Counties.
He said the main reason there’s no humane officers in the county is because there’s no animal shelter.
Carlson said that’s where humane officers usually work out of.
He said Jefferson County is dealing with budget constraints, and does not think it is something the county will be able to afford any time soon.
Carlson told 6News he does not have the power to arrest someone for animal cruelty.
The charges would be left up to state police to handle that matter.
The lack of enforcement is what frustrates vets in the area who are left to care for the dogs.
For the full story, check out WJACTV.com.
