Stray Dogs Biting at Forks

It's an issue with a lot of teeth. What's eating away at Forks Township officials is whether policies regarding stray dogs have enough bite in them in terms of enforcement.

Or are Forks officials just foaming at the mouth when they worry about their stray dog population?

"What should we do with stray dogs," Supervisors Chairman Erik Chuss asked at the board's recent work session. "Palmer has kennels and so does Easton."

Public Works Director Mark Roberts said with the SPCA at full capacity because of its no-kill policy, Forks houses its stray dogs. He said that can be dealt with during the summer, but that the strays must be housed indoors during the winter.

Township Manager John Cornell said stray dogs have become a problem for municipalities throughout the state.

"Everywhere," he said. "When the economy went down, it exasperated the situation."

Police Chief Greg Dorney stated that Palmer Township started an adoption program about a week ago for the five to six strays it has but that there is a lot involved with the process.

"If we run an adoption program, are we liable?" Supervisor John O'Neil wondered.

Chuss said that Palmer Township officials were going to explain their adoption policy on the township's website in the near future.