State law also requires rabies inoculations and tags for all pets dogs and cats. The pets are required to wear those tags, said Flowers. Some of the commissioners seemed a bit daunted by the formidable challenge of enforcing that aspect of the law.

Also, Flowers said, many are unaware that Georgia does not allow an owner to vaccinate a dog or cat on his own. Inoculations are to be administered only by a licensed veterinarian, according to state law. Flowers would like to see local veterinarians venture into outlying areas to hold rabies shot clinics as they have done in years past.

The board also will consider a set amount for liability insurance on a dangerous or vicious dog. The state sets a minimum of $15,000, but Castellow said that amount is unrealistically too low.

Humane Society Director Don reported that this past year, his organization handled about five dog to human bite cases and up to about five more nips.

The Board of Commissioners meets again tonight at 7 p.m. at the courthouse annex.