A new policy regarding stray dogs has been implemented by the Marion County Board of Supervisors following discussions with the Marion County Humane Society.
Under the new policy, all stray dogs found in Marion County, including within the City of Knoxville, must be reported to and checked in through either the Marion County Sheriff’s Office or the Knoxville Police Department.
The Marion County Humane Society will no longer accept stray dogs directly from individuals who find them unless law enforcement has first been contacted.
Anyone who finds a stray dog is required to contact the appropriate law enforcement agency before bringing the animal to the Humane Society.
Officials also clarified that cats are not considered strays under this policy and are not included in the new requirements.
The policy change follows a lengthy discussion between the Marion County Humane Society and the Marion County Board of Supervisors during Tuesday’s meeting.
Residents who find a stray dog are encouraged to contact the Marion County Sheriff’s Office or the Knoxville Police Department for instructions on how to proceed.
