Honestly, I just went back into the house to get some coffee - that's it. It happened so quickly. When I came back outside they were tied and the other dog so skittish I felt helpless because I didn't want him to hurt Jasmine. I couldn't get close to him.
Anyway -
Just got off the phone with the animal control officer - and he was VERY helpful. I also did some research into the Oklahoma Animal Control Laws last night - you know...around 4:30 or so. *wry grin*
He said that the law "estray animals" when a dog strays onto your property you have the right to "take up" said animal. Which means I can claim him - I need help CATCHING him which he is on his way to help me do right now. But once I claim him (ie "take him up") I can provide any medical, food, etc care the dog needs. In this case - a brucellosis test.
IF the owners want him back they have to pay the actual costs expended by the taker-up and - according to the animal control officer - "damages by said estray while on the property of the taker-up". He said the county judge will look at the file and decide what is "appropriate to the case".
But at least I will be able to legally catch the dog, transport to the vet and pay myself to have him tested. The owners, whoever they are, will likely just decline to claim ownership of him in which case I can simply surrender him to Animal Control once the testing is completed.
But at least this way I will KNOW whether my sweet Jazzy is sick or not without having a wait for a month of torturous not-knowing before her blood work would show anything.
Will keep everyone posted - animal control should be here within the hour. He was SO helpful on the phone and explained the "estray" laws. He said if the owner claims the dog they'll be given a bill to pay and I'll be reimbursed. If they don't, the dog is simply surrendered to Animal ZControl and run through the system. Either way - at least I have the legal grounds to FORCE the dog to be tested. Which is all I really care about at this immediate time.
Thanks for everyone's imput - and the helpful private messages as well.
I just want to warn everyone - it can happen SO quickly. As in, go inside the kitchen to get a cup of coffee quick! SO BE CAREFUL.
Angela <>< |