29-01-2025
'These dogs are trained to kill, or they have learned how to kill,' Pack of feral dogs terrorizing Delaware County
DELAWARE COUNTY – Around 50 Delaware County residents turned out for a community meeting to learn what can be done regarding a pack of feral dogs attacking and killing livestock.
Delaware County Sheriff Ray Thomas appeared at the Lakemont Shores fire station on Tuesday to update the residents.
Lakemont Shores is on the Eucha arm of Grand Lake.
Several residents spoke up about attacks on livestock.
'If the dogs are aggressive and attacking you or your livestock – you can shoot the dog.'
Delaware County Sheriff Ray Thomas
Thomas also warned about shooting dogs irresponsibly.
Delaware County does not have a county-wide animal control unit. He said Grand River Dam Authority helicopters patrol the area during training exercises.
Thomas said he is working with the Delaware County Commissioner on a plan to address the issue.
Hoguen Apperson, Delaware County Cattlemen's Association president, urged residents to contact the Delaware County Sheriff's and make a report when they have an issue with dogs.
'For far too long, livestock owners in Delaware County have known the economic and heartbreaking impact of feral dogs,' Apperson said after the meeting.
John Nielson spoke about how he had to put down his 14-year-old dog, who was attacked by a pack of wild dogs.
The pack of dogs is believed to contain a pit bull, a German Shepherd, a husky, and other mixed breeds, he said.
'These dogs are trained to kill, or they have learned how to kill,' Nielson said.
Nielson said his neighbor told him how she was on her daily walk and was confronted by a pack of wild dogs, and they attacked her.
'These dogs are not scared of people,' Nielson said.
Nielson said the dog pack is killing family pets – dogs and cats – and livestock. He reported to the crowd that 12 cows and eight calves had been attacked.
Nielsen created a text chain for the community members to be aware of the pack of dogs and for better reporting to law enforcement.
Oklahoma Alliance for Animals and Second Chance Pet Rescue offered their help in proposing safe and humane solutions.
'It costs $32,000 a month to run an animal shelter,' said Cassie Owens, Second Chance Pet Rescue of Grand Lake director.
Owens also addressed the crowd, explaining that the Grove facility has a long waiting list for animals but cannot accept 'aggressive' dogs.
The social media posts have spread where people are shooting animals that are in a resident's yard.
'These are pets that are getting shot,' Owens said.
A second community meeting is planned for the Hickory Grove area to tackle similar issues affecting the northern regions of Delaware County.
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