Pit bulls fill third of shelter

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake City Council reviewed information from Grant County Animal Outreach concerning the number of pit bulls taken to the shelter since the hazardous dog ordinance went into place.

The ordinance went into effect Jan. 1 and established pit bulls, rottweilers and presa canarios as hazardous dogs.

In order for someone to own a hazardous dog they must register it with the city for $250, spay or neuter it, obtain $200,000 in insurance on the dog in case it attacks, install a microchip and keep it in an enclosed structure.

Of the 161 dogs impounded or surrendered by their owners from Jan. 1 through March 31, 50 dogs were pit bulls, two were rottweilers and no presa canarios were sent to the shelter.

City Manager Joe Gavinski told the council the information provides a different perspective on the effectiveness of the ordinance. Although few are registered with the city, many people are relinquishing their animals, he said.

— Staff report