Atascosa County Judge’s Report




 

 

While driving to work this morning, I nearly hit a small dog who charged my car and went for the front tire. I dodged and kept going while checking the rearview mirror to make sure I did not hit the animal. It made my feelings come to the surface with convictions I have had for a long time now. When anyone lets their dog run loose, they are responsible for any injury that occurs to others or to their animal. It could be poisoned, hit by a car or attacked by other animals. It could be an attack by the dog on someone else or their animal. The legal definition of a “stray dog” is one that is not on its owner’s property. That owner is responsible for any damage caused by their “stray dog.” When outside the owner’s property, the dog should be on a leash held by the owner or someone approved by the owner. In that case the dog is not a stray. I believe anyone who does not keep their dog in a fenced yard or inside the house or on a leash should not own a dog. Anything else is potential animal cruelty. I am not talking about farms and ranches – that is something else entirely. I am talking about city or subdivision dwelling. It is irresponsible to let your dog roam the streets unleashed.

Atascosa County Animal Control continue to adopt out cats and dogs on a regular basis. I have full confidence that our efforts are making life better in our cities and subdivisions. I also am convinced that we are saving many animals’ lives through these efforts. Chief Dominguez works hard to match up the animals with the adopting families. If you watch the Atascosa County Animal Control Facebook postings you will see that adoptions are going well. Each one warms my heart.

Quote: “Political speeches are like steer horns. A point here, a point there and a lot of bull in between.” Alfred E. Neuman.

Thank you for listening.

We want you to be proud of your county government.

BOB HURLEY is the Atascosa County Judge. You may e-mail him at countyjudge@ atascosacounty.texas.gov.

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