MERLIN, Ore. -- Budget cuts from the loss of those timber payments are already forcing Josephine County to reduce hours and services at the animal shelter.

The county announced the shelter in Merlin will be open from 11:30 to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.

Animal Control officers will be available weekdays from 8 to 4:30. Responses will only be for situations where dogs are a threat to people, livestock, or other animals, license and humane checks, and dogs at large that are blocking traffic or are a threat to public safety.