Springfield tries out pit bull adoptions from public shelter

SPRINGFIELD (AP) - Springfield is testing a new policy that allows some pit bulls and pit-bull mixes in the city shelter to be adopted by rescue groups.

The six-month trial could save pit bulls that would have been euthanized. Dogs would have to be evaluated as to whether they're adoptable.

A city ordinance previously didn't allow pit bull adoptions. Data provided by city council members says 365 pit bulls have been euthanized by the health department in the last four years.

The ordinance also requires pit bull owners to register dogs, have a microchip placed under the dogs' skin and pay $50 for annual registration.

Springfield City Council member Cindy Rushefsky said she hopes the adoption policy change is made permanent.

"I know this is a policy that we've been trying to get changed for eight years," she said. "So we are very happy about it."

Staff felt the change could be made following certain requirements to make sure the dogs are adoptable, Mayor Bob Stephens said. Dogs would have to take an aggression test, and dogs with a history of biting wouldn't be considered.

"Citizens have provided feedback and Councilwoman Cindy Rushefsky and other council members have further supported this policy change," Stephens said.

Health department officials have credited the pit bull ordinance with a drop in dog bites. The department said last year it documented the fewest dog bites in a decade.

Opponents of the ordinance have made their presence known at recent city council meetings. They want the council to adopt an ordinance on vicious dogs and not single out one breed.