Garland Commissioner Austin Brown listens to a presentation regarding animal control. -

GARLAND — To improve animal control efforts throughout Garland, town leaders made a decision to use the services of the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office.

Police Chief Ronald Matthews recently drafted an ordinance, which basically gives authority to the sheriff’s office authority to investigate and enforce animal control. Commissioners made a decision to adopt the county’s policy.

Animal issues were brought up during previous meetings. Several residents complained about stray dogs roaming through town or attacking other animals. Concern was also shown for children and Commissioner Austin Brown spoke about his mother not being able to walk her dog because of loose rottweiler.

In March 2017, commissioners considered adopting the county’s animal control policy, but they wanted to wait until Matthews was hired to have input. At the time, it was stressed that Garland’s previous policy was outdated.

Before the final approval, Matthews researched several towns and their policies and tried to customize one for Garland. The lengths of the policies were different for each town.

“It basically doesn’t change a lot that’s already existing with guidelines, but it enhances the enforcement ability,” he said.

Along with commissioners, Matthews talked about fines for violators or other repercussions. Fines range from $25 to $100.

“We’re not out to take anybody’s animals on the first offense,” he said about sending verbal warning through letters or adding fines.

It was suggested that collected fines are used to purchase equipment to help animal control efforts in the area. One device mentioned by Matthews was traps to catch animals, which will be used by Sampson County’s Animal Control Unit.

During a discussion about taking care of pets, town leaders mentioned how owners are responsible for providing their pets enough food, water and housing so they don’t wander for those needs.

“It’s the owners responsibility to make sure that the water bucket can’t do one or two things, either drown the animal or be easily knocked over so they’re not without water,” he said. “A part of that responsibility needs to go back to the homeowner to provide adequate water, shelter and containment.”

Later during the meeting, commissioner voted unanimously to repeal and replace an existing ordinance with Sampson County’s policy. Deputy Clerk Town Clerk Teresa Smith reported that White Lake adopted Bladen County’s and took similar action. Smith suggested that Garland do the same.

“We had talked about changing where the fees were paid to us,” Smith said. “If we do that, we’re not adopting Sampson County’s policy. We’re changing it.”

Through the decision, it was mentioned that Garland’s department would not be responsible for animal control. Sampson County’s Animal Control Unit is responsible for enforcing animal control law and investigating animal abuse claims.

Sampson County’s animal control ordinance is available online at goo.gl/wncxhk.

Garland Commissioner Austin Brown listens to a presentation regarding animal control. https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/web1_Garland.jpg Garland Commissioner Austin Brown listens to a presentation regarding animal control.

Reach Chase Jordan at 910-249-4617. Follow us on Twitter at @SampsonInd and like us on Facebook.

Reach Chase Jordan at 910-249-4617. Follow us on Twitter at @SampsonInd and like us on Facebook.