Animal control department seeks custody of neglected dogs

The Franklin County animal control department is seeking help from the courts in keeping a Carrabelle family from ever owning pets again. County commissioners on Tuesday asked the county’s attorney to help with the case so the county can take custody of seven dogs and ban the dogs’ owners from further pet ownership. Animal control director Van Johnson said the issue began after Carrabelle police reported a number of dogs suffering from serious neglect. The seven mixed breed dogs were found starving and were removed from the home. They were in such bad condition they had to be taken directly to a local veterinarian where one received a blood transfusion. Mister Johnson said without the transfusion the dog would have died. Johnson said this is the second time this same family has been cited for animal neglect and he does not want them to have a third opportunity. Animal control now plans to seek a court order prohibiting the family from owning pets in the future. They are also seeking custody of the seven dogs so they can find new owners for them.