Dogs and the Value of my Chickens

[A_Fowl_Guy]

In MO, one can shoot any dog that worries livestock.
In every case of a dog attack, I have them taken by animal control so there is an official record so the next time when the dog takes a shotgun blast, I have proof.

Exactly. As long as you don’t follow the dog back to shoot it you’re fine.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

True. However, the statute reads that you can track the dog anywhere in the state and shoot it were you find it except in a pen on the owner's property.

 

[Henry&Friends]

In WV, I wouldn’t have contacted the owner, just SSS. I’d advise you not to go any less than $50 each, plus the cost of the fence. Or I’d order the dogs be put down. Your chickens are your pets, and why should their pets be more important than yours?

 

[A_Fowl_Guy]

True. However, the statute reads that you can track the dog anywhere in the state and shoot it were you find it except in a pen on the owner's property.

Depends on the state. Cont do that here in Indiana nor Illinois.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Depends on the state. Cont do that here in Indiana nor Illinois.

It definitely depends on the state. The Missouri statutes were actually strengthened about 20 years ago to add the part about tracking down the harassing dog and legally killing the dog when found.
I think the main issue is if the victims are pets or livestock.
The Missouri statute specifically says "livestock".

What many don't know is that each county maintains a fund to reimburse one who loses livestock to dog attacks when the owner can't be identified. Money from dog licenses goes into that fund. In our county, you have a week to seek reimbursement from the county and the attack has to be witnessed by another adult that isn't a family member.

 

[aart]

Oh Geez...enough with the proverbial 'dog debate' ...how to shoot them what the laws are blahblahblah...
Let's just let the OP deal with their situation and try to stay on topic<gasp> (what a concept!!) and try to support them.

 

[Rammy]

I agree. Ive seen too many of these topics descend into dog debates and SSS. The OP is just asking how to figure out how much it would cost to replace the chickens, vet costs, feed.
Sorry for your loss. Hope your injured hen recovers.