Moses Lake allows fourth dog requests

Each case to be reviewed by council

MOSES LAKE - Martin Larioz is one step closer to keeping his four dogs in Moses Lake.

Moses Lake City Council unanimously approved to allow citizens with limited circumstances to possess a fourth dog, one in addition to the three-dog limit according to city code. The ordinance was adopted after the final reading Tuesday night.

Citizens who are blind or physically disabled are given an opportunity to ask council to possess of fourth dog, according to the ordinance. The additional dog must be deemed a comfort dog. The council considers how the person came into possession of the additional animal. Once the comfort dog dies, it can't be replaced if it causes the number of animals owned to exceed three.

Larioz made the request after he learned he was in violation due to his excess number of pets. He owns four dogs, some requiring medical attention. Larioz said he couldn't imagine getting rid of any of the dogs. He said they comfort him during bouts of depression and help him to overcome his affliction.

During the council meeting, Mayor Ron Covey asked Larioz if he understood the ordinance and if he understood the fourth dog could not be replaced if it causes him to have more than three dogs.

Larioz said he understood.

Councilmember Richard Pearce added, if anyone wishes to be in compliance with the ordinance allowing the fourth dog, they are reminded to make the request to council.

Larioz will be required to make the request to council at the next meeting slated for Nov. 13 at 7 p.m.

City Manager Joe Gavinski said the information already provided by Larioz will be used for consideration by council. The information includes testimony at previous council meetings and a letter submitted explaining the dogs and why he should be able to keep them.