The Knox County Dog Shelter recently organized its Pooch Plunge event at Hiawatha Water Park, where 44 dogs participated. The event successfully raised approximately $450, as reported by Knox County Dog Warden Brian Biggerstaff to the Knox County Board of Commissioners on August 21.
Biggerstaff said that all proceeds from the Pooch Plunge will be allocated to the county's animal care fund. This fund is utilized for surgeries and other necessities for dogs housed at the shelter.
Biggerstaff provided additional insights into the shelter's operations in July. He reported that 47 dogs were brought into the shelter during that month, with 12 being owner surrenders. Thirty-four were strays, and one was a dog in custody. Of these, 39 dogs left the shelter: ten were adopted, nine underwent euthanasia, eighteen were returned to their owners, and two were transferred to a rescue group. He clarified that the nine euthanized dogs were put down at their owners' request due to aggression, bite history, or severe medical issues.
Biggerstaff also mentioned that the dog shelter charges a fee for euthanization services. He noted that this fee is significantly lower than what residents might pay at a veterinary office, making it a viable option for those seeking humane euthanasia for their pets.
Furthermore, Biggerstaff disclosed that nine citations were issued in July. Deputy Brian Weiser issued one citation for failure to confine a dog. Deputy Tyler Moore issued five citations for failure to confine, two citations for failure to license a dog, and one citation for falsification.
