Our peace was recently shattered when my duck was brutally killed, and my cats were terrorized by loose dogs. This incident is not an isolated one, but a reflection of the lack of effective animal control measures in our county.

Skamania County, with its rich biodiversity and expansive natural landscapes, is home to many pet owners like myself who cherish the companionship of our animals. However, the absence of enforceable animal control regulations puts both pets and people at risk.

According to data from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), uncontrolled dogs contribute significantly to animal attacks nationwide. In 2017 alone, approximately 350,000 people were treated at hospital emergency rooms for nonfatal dog bite-related injuries (Centers for Disease Control). While these statistics are national averages, they highlight a potential risk that we face locally due to inadequate animal control measures.

We call on our local government officials to recognize this issue's gravity and implement enforceable animal control measures in Skamania County. These should include stricter leash laws, mandatory registration and identification for pets, and increased penalties for owners who neglect their responsibilities leading to harm or distress caused by their animals.

Let us ensure that no other pet owner has to experience what I have gone through. Sign this petition today and join us in advocating for better protection for all residents - human or otherwise - within Skamania County.