The Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation neighboring Fountain Hills recently dealt with reports of “aggressive dogs running loose,” resulting in attacks that prompted its police department to increase patrols while urging the public to stay away.
Two tribal members were bitten last week and are now recovering from non-lethal injuries, according to acting police Chief Jesse Puffer, telling KJZZ: “We did catch three out of the four dogs.”
And such incidents are not uncommon on tribal lands, with lots of canines roaming their 24,000-acre reservation bordering the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Some animals are seen as strays — often dogs that are dumped there — while others are claimed as pets by those belonging to the 950-member tribe.
“We also have a dog ordinance, too,” said Puffer, “so people get cited for that as well. Depending on what the nature is, could be anywhere from, you know, $150 fine and it can be higher if you can’t show record of vaccination and also licensing.”
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