Dog catchers in Grand Rapids area turn to a net launcher

CASCADE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) - Look out, Shaggy. Here they come.

Animal control officers in the Grand Rapids area are spending $1,500 in donations to get a device that shoots a net over wandering dogs. The Grand Rapids Press (http://bit.ly/1KAXzZh ) says Kent County will use the net gun to catch a Newfoundland who's been nicknamed Shaggy for his shaggy appearance.

The dog has been wandering Cascade Township neighborhoods for months. County spokeswoman Lisa LaPlante says Shaggy recognizes animal control vans and certain clothes and always slips away. She says it's been a "huge effort."

Christina Sanchez has stepped forward to claim ownership of the dog. She says his name is Jacob, and he won't hurt anybody. Sanchez says the dog escaped from a trainer.

If the dog is caught, Sanchez might get a big bill.

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Information from: The Grand Rapids Press, http://www.mlive.com/grand-rapids