Kansas City officials debate animal control leadership amid ongoing dog attacks

The incident involving a dog named Jonesy attacking a herd of sheep in a nature preserve in south Kansas City has sparked controversy and raised concerns about animal control in the area. Over the course of three days in May, Jonesy killed two sheep, severely injured another, and caused one to go missing for weeks before returning to the herd. The herd, owned by a company called Good Oak, was working to clear honeysuckle in the preserve as part of a restoration project.

Company co-owner Dan Krull described the gruesome scene on Facebook, detailing the injuries sustained by the sheep and the financial losses incurred by the company due to the attack. The dog, Jonesy, a tan shepherd mix with a black nose, remains with its owner while the legal proceedings unfold. The incident forced the company to put the restoration project on hold, costing them thousands of dollars in fees, as each sheep was valued at $500.

The blame for the incident has been placed on KC Pet Project, the organization responsible for animal control services in Kansas City since 2020. Critics have accused KC Pet Project of being too lax in dealing with dangerous animals, leading to repeated attacks like the one involving Jonesy. The organization, however, defends its education-first approach, stating that it aligns with national best practices in animal welfare.

The controversy surrounding KC Pet Project’s handling of dangerous animals has led to calls for a change in animal control services in Kansas City. Some community members and organizations have suggested returning animal services to city control to ensure more effective enforcement and protection for residents and their pets. The issue has become a top concern for many, especially those who have experienced firsthand the dangers posed by aggressive dogs in their neighborhoods.

One of the most notable cases involving dangerous dogs in Kansas City is that of Duke and Daisy, a pair of pit bulls responsible for multiple attacks on dogs and their owners. Despite several incidents and reports to KC Pet Project, the organization did not take immediate action to declare Duke and Daisy as dangerous animals. It was only after a series of attacks and injuries that the dogs were seized, with Daisy ultimately being euthanized.

The controversy extends to the enforcement of mandatory spay/neuter laws for pit bulls in Kansas City, a policy that KC Pet Project has opposed. Critics argue that the lack of enforcement has contributed to an increase in the pit bull population and related incidents. However, KC Pet Project maintains that education and community engagement are more effective in promoting responsible pet ownership.

As the debate over animal control services continues in Kansas City, the future of KC Pet Project’s contract with the city remains uncertain. While the organization’s contract has been extended through 2025, there are calls for a reevaluation of the current approach to animal control. The city council will ultimately decide the best course of action to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and their pets in the community.