The dogs were determined to be part wolf, husky, and malamute, with initial reports last week claiming they were roaming the small town of Shingletown near where the owner lives, according to the statement.
The owner has since been cited for having unlicensed and unvaccinated animals and for kennel violations. One of the seven wolf hybrids—who is believed to have initiated the attack that killed the dog—has since been voluntarily turned over to the department’s Animal Regulation unit by the owner.
Since the killing of the dog, officials have attempted to catch the remaining six animals with traps baited with food, but have thus far been unsuccessful, officials said, because the pack appear to be well-fed.
According to the sheriff’s department, it cannot do much legally if the dogs return to their owner’s property.
In Shasta County, there must be two attacks within 36 months before animals can be deemed “potentially dangerous,” officials said in the recent statement. If given that designation, they still couldn’t be seized unless they, again, were caught straying from the owner’s property.
“[We understand] the public’s frustration, but we must work within the confines of the law,” officials said.
If the animals stray off the property and are caught, they will be taken to a local humane center, officials said.
Officials also reminded the public they have the right to defend themselves if they encounter the dogs.
“The public is reminded that if animals trespass on their property, the public has the legal right to protect themselves, their pets and livestock, and their property,” they said.
Any sighting of the dogs can be reported to Animal Regulation at 530-245-6065.
