The City of Commerce and Commerce Police Department is aware of recent social media posts regarding an animal welfare concern on Lewis Circle, specifically regarding a dog secured in an undersized cage in the backyard of the residence during inclement weather.
On Sunday, August 2, Commerce Police officers responded to the residence to conduct a welfare check on the dog. Upon their arrival no dog was found in the backyard and there was no answer at the residence. Photos were later shared with staff showing a brown dog in a small cage in the backyard of the residence.
On Monday morning, August 3, officers with Jackson County Animal Control and Commerce Code Enforcement conducted a welfare check on the dog. Officers made contact with the owner and “Lilo”, a brown pitbull mix. Officers found Lilo to be in good health, displaying normal energy, healthy activity, and genuine affection toward her owner. Lilo also had clean water, appropriate food, and showed no signs of distress. Officers discussed the situation and photos with the owner, who stated that Lilo is an inside/outside dog. Animal Control issued the owner a citation for “Failure to Provide Adequate Shelter.”
Within the last 24 hours, Animal Control officers conducted another follow-up check on Lilo. Officers found that the owner obtained and provided Lilo with a new doghouse and water bowl addressing the shelter concerns noted earlier.
It should be noted that the citation issued to the owner on Monday remains in effect until the case is adjudicated in court.
Jackson County Animal Control provides animal welfare services throughout the county and works closely with local law enforcement on all animal welfare concerns. The City of Commerce remains committed to the safety and security of its two‑ and four‑legged citizens.
We encourage residents to report any concerns related to human or animal welfare directly to 911. Doing so ensures a timely response by law enforcement and helps protect the wellbeing of all members of our #OneCommerce community.
For questions or concerns regarding animal welfare, Jackson County Animal Control can be reached directly by phone at 706-367-5480.