Slater Mayor Terry Jordan addressed recent complaints about the city’s response for at-large and aggressive dogs during the meeting of the Slater City Council on Tuesday, July 15.

Jordan says numerous residents have complained about loose dogs wandering the city and trespassing on private property. In some cases, these dogs have been aggressive towards residents.

Jordan says anyone with a complaint should take pictures and video of the incident and fill out a dog complaint form at City Hall. Residents can also fill out a “Slater Dog Complaint” form on the Saline County Sheriff’s website.

Any violations of Slater’s nuisance animal ordinance are subject to escalating fines of up to $1,500. The typical structure is $100 for the first offense, $250 for the second offense, and up to $500 for the next offenses. Different offenses can also be cited together to increase the fine. The maximum fine for a dog-owner who has an at-large dog, no animal license, and a reported dog bite from their dog cited together is $1,500.

The Saline County Sheriff’s Office will also investigate complaints and issue tickets when necessary. Aggressive or problematic dogs can also be impounded until the problem is corrected.

For emergency animal situations, like dog bites or other forms of aggression, residents should call 911 or call the Saline County Sheriff’s Department at 660-886-5511.