Home / Crime and Justice / Dog Euthanasia Sparks Protest
Dog Euthanasia Sparks Protest
13 Sep
Summary
- Protesters rallied against animal control's decision.
- A dog named Starsky will be euthanized.
- Dispute between animal control and a local shelter.
Protests gathered outside Whiteside County Animal Control in Rock Falls on Friday, September 11, 2026, over the planned euthanasia of a dog named Starsky. The county's animal control office announced on Thursday night that Starsky would be euthanized following a review of the case. The decision came after Starsky's owner reported on August 18, 2026, that the dog bit a person, causing a wound requiring stitches.
The incident reportedly occurred when Starsky reacted to a commotion involving a lawn mower and another foster dog. The owner surrendered Starsky to county animal control, initiating a 10-day observation period. During this time, the owner noted Starsky exhibited resource-guarding behaviors and some fear-related issues, though also described him as generally affectionate and trainable.
Meanwhile, Happy Tails humane shelter attempted to gain custody of Starsky, requesting his transfer on August 31, 2026. Whiteside County Animal Control stated that no disposition decision would be made until all records, circumstances, and applicable laws were reviewed. Ultimately, the county determined that the documented behavioral risk posed by Starsky could not be managed to an acceptable level, deeming him unsuitable for adoption or transfer.
