The West Tisbury selectmen have been put in a difficult spot as they try to navigate the ongoing conflict over two Akitas that have killed chickens and geese at a neighboring farm. The selectmen’s responsibility is to the town as a whole, and — as cruel as it may sound to some — they must do what is necessary to ensure that the dogs don’t continue to prey on local livestock.

The selectmen have gone to great lengths to spare the lives of the dogs, despite what can only be seen as irresponsible behavior by the dog owners. The selectmen originally agreed to let the dogs be banished from the Island rather than destroyed, but reversed themselves when one of the owners attempted to free one of the animals from the town pound against selectmen’s orders.

Now the order to euthanize the dogs has been stayed again, and the owners have one more week to come up with a plan to find a new home for the dogs off the Island. In light of the circumstances, it does not seem unfair for the selectmen to insist that the dogs be placed with new owners.

A cursory check of the Internet shows a long list of Akita rescue organizations throughout the country. No doubt someone associated with one of these groups would be able to assist the owners in finding a home for their dogs. But it is up to the owners to take decisive, responsible action to save their dogs.

Time is running out.