Somerset County Dog Control Sees Increase in Abandoned Dogs
Westover, Md. — Officials from Somerset County Dog Control (SCDC) said they’ve seen an increase in the number of abandoned dogs in the county, which they add is illegal and potentially a fatal decision for the dogs.
“Just this week alone, we have had four dogs. Today is Friday and we were closed on Monday that were dumped here in the county. Some of them on dead end roads that lead to nowhere to the marsh. And there’s nothing there for the dogs,” said Cindy Tawes, a supervisor with SCDC.
Tawes stressed that if the people who abandon dogs are found they will be prosecuted, and if individuals know someone who has dumped a dog, they need to report it. She said Dog Control has a waiting list for people looking to relinquish dogs, which is impacted in part by the number of dumped dogs they are finding and caring for.
“We understand that some people are in a bind and they need help and we’re here to help them. But we can’t help you when you’re dumping your dog on a back road and not reaching out to us,” Tawes said.
SCDC director Scott Sturgis added that there are resources available for people struggling to take care of their dogs. He said the agency is there to help and wanted to dissuade notions that any and every dog relinquished to the shelter will be put down.
“Education is key. Call in here and ask questions about your animal, your dog. We will do whatever we can to help you,” Sturgis said.
Other organizations are working to help Dog Control, which has 23 kennels to house the dogs. Allison Lank, founder of Diamond In The Ruff Rescue, came to pick up four dogs on Friday and plans to return in a few days to pick up several more. Lank added there are plenty of ways to get assistance with pets no longer wanted or unable to be taken care of.
“There’s no sense in just leaving the animals to fend for themselves. There’s plenty of resources to be able to keep your pets, food pantries. We’re not quite ready to offer a food pantry, but there are other resources that do, and they just need to reach out,” Lank said.
