A Central Washington sheriff has sworn in hound handlers to pursue cougars and black bears, saying he expects his office to be quicker and more aggressive in responding to dangerous animals than the state Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Klickitat County Sheriff Bob Songer said he’s heard increasing concerns from ranchers and others about predators.

Since the sheriff took charge of chasing predators last last month, a cougar seen in a field with cattle was chased and euthanized, a livestock-protection measure Songer said he doubts Fish and Wildlife would have taken.

“We don’t have to wait for a killing,” he said. “I feel very strongly that prevention is better than waiting for something to happen.”

Fish and Wildlife’s chief…