The Green County Humane Society has recently formed a task force to look at the issue of aggressive dogs and how we should best handle them. Unfortunately, misinformation already has been circulating in the community, and we would like to take this opportunity to clear up any misconceptions.

First, we want to make it clear GCHS is not considering changing our no-kill status. No-kill, as defined by animal welfare organizations, means we will not euthanize animals because of lack of space. We do not, and will not, put animals down simply because we don't have room available.

Attacks by dogs on humans and other animals are, unfortunately, a very real concern. The GCHS board of directors takes very seriously our responsibility to promote responsible pet ownership, and to protect the health and safety of all animals in our charge, our staff, visitors to our shelter and the community at large. To that end, it is imperative we take any steps necessary to prevent overly aggressive dogs from being placed in a situation where they could cause harm to themselves or others.

Because we have just begun looking at discussing this issue, it's premature to state what any policies or guidelines may be. Initial discussions have included increasing efforts to place certain animals in foster homes or with animal rescue organizations that have experience dealing with aggressive dogs. As we begin our study of this issue, we are committed to looking at each aggressive animal on a case-by-case basis; we have no plans to make policy based on breed or amount of time an animal has been at the shelter.

As always, we appreciate your continued support.