ASHLAND, ORE. — A Rogue Valley family is heartbroken tonight after their dog was killed at an Ashland dog park over the weekend. Jackson County Animal Services is now investigating the incident, and officials with the park say there’s no plan to implement new restrictions.
“We’re talking about a dog that had no other history of attacking or not getting along with other dogs,” Barbara Talbert says, “so therefore we’ll take our time, and make sure we make the right decision for the dog and for our community.”
Jackson County Animal Services officials are calling it an unfortunate event. A Chihuahua was killed by a German Shepherd while inside an Ashland dog park Sunday.
The incident has sparked spirited conversation among park visitors. Some believe a small gated area is reserved for smaller dogs, but park officials say that’s not the case.
“It’s never been signed as a small dog area,” Michael Black, Director of Ashland Parks & Rec says, “So there’s nothing stopping a larger dog from going in there.”
Park rules require that potentially dangerous dogs be leashed, and Black says it’s the owners responsibility to monitor and remove any aggressive animals. Visitors to the park say in the wake of the incident they’re now on high alert.
The German Shepherd involved has been surrendered by it’s owner, and Jackson County Animal Services will now determine whether or not the animal will be sent to a shelter or euthanized.
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