Some possible changes at Citrus County Animal Services are creating a cloud of controversy.
Right now at animal services there is no set rule when it comes to euthanizing animals, but county leaders might change that.
County leaders are thinking about creating a 10 day hold period. After that, animals at the shelter can be put down. County Commissioner Ron Kitchen says the idea is not set in stone and could change. Right now the plan is to gather information and listen. Kitchen is a dog owner, but says taxpayers should not be responsible for other people’s pets.
"Some people say I don't care what it costs, don't euthanize the animals. Well, that's not fair to the taxpayer who says I do care what it costs," Kitchen said. "You have to deal with the unadoptable animals left at the shelter."
County leaders want to shrink government involvement and get out of the pet adoption business and get back into the animal control business.
Wanda Moak is an animal services volunteer. She says thanks to a lot of hard work their adoption rates are great; 97 percent for dogs and 69 percent for cats. She said something like a 10 day hold period is a drastic measure and it's not needed.
"Please do not, do not set mandatory time limits," Moak said. "We have excellent save rates, incredible save rates for a county shelter."
A county spokesperson says commissioners should vote on this issue either on May 12th or May 26th.