Wichita Animal Control backed off a rule Monday that banned people from taking pictures of dogs and cats inside the Wichita Animal Shelter.



The rule went into effect Friday, but after a surge of criticism from animal lovers over the weekend, Captain Doug Nolte announced pictures and video would once again be allowed in certain areas, but feeding the animals treats would still be banned.



"Our goal is for the safe and orderly care of animals and the safety of the public that we serve," said Captain Nolte.



Nolte said treats were being given to the dogs before their picture was taken and the concern was that potentially dangerous dogs could be misrepresented.



"We felt we need to address this immediately so that we didn't let this spiral out of control," said Nolte about the reaction from the Wichita community after the rule was enforced.



Animals rescue groups say the change in the shelter rules is progress.



"When we're not even given a voice or a seat at the table to discuss these issues, we don't have any other option than to make sure that the squeaky wheel is the one that gets the oil," said Sarah Coffman, Executive Director of Wichita Animal Action League.



Pictures aren't allowed in all areas of the shelter. The public, including rescue groups, can no longer take pictures inside the sick and injured unit.



"I rely on this video," said Randi Carter with Beauties and Beasts Animal Rescue. "The person looks at it and thinks 'oh I have help'," she said.



The video, Carters says compels people to pay for an animal's care.



"I think there's been this misunderstanding that we're against rescues, farthest thing from the truth," said Captain Notle.