SYLACAUGA, Ala. – The Greater Birmingham Humane Society’s coordinated feeding effort along Hwy 280 in Sylacauga was scheduled to begin Tuesday, Oct. 13, as the first phase of a plan to capture the dogs.
The group may include 40 or more dogs that travel across private property on both sides of the highway. Work could not proceed until property owners gave written permission for access and equipment. The city attorney handled approvals and insurance and liability protections. The city notified the humane society Friday, Oct. 9, that the process was complete.
Under the plan, the dogs will be fed daily at designated locations and times. The routine is intended to draw them away from the highway and teach them to gather at predictable sites before a group capture attempt.
The humane society has built and tested a corral trap, purchased additional traps and remote monitoring equipment, and arranged for veterinary care during capture operations. The equipment is dedicated to Sylacauga.
Capturing the dogs together may prevent those left behind from scattering and becoming harder to catch. Afterward, teams will search for remaining dogs using live camera feeds and individual traps.
One injured dog has been captured and is receiving care. Her limited mobility made an individual capture possible, but healthier dogs are unlikely to be caught the same way.
The humane society asks residents not to set traps, chase or try to catch the dogs, or leave food in the area, which could disrupt the feeding schedule. Residents should report sightings or concerns to Sylacauga Animal Control or the Sylacauga Police Department.
The organization said its goal is to get every dog away from the highway, capture them safely, and place them in appropriate care.
