August 23, 2013

Not quite ready to really get this blog kicked off but I had to make and comment about an article in yesterdays Commerce Journal.

The article was titled:
Recent dog attacks raise safety concerns.

It was proposed by a citizen  that "dogs must be in a fence no less than 6 feet". 

Although the City code does not specify a height, the code already says ALL dogs are to be confined by a fence not just "vicious and dangerous" dogs.

Sec. 10-33. - Confinement of dogs.

Every person raising, owning or keeping any dog within the city shall confine such dog to the premises of the owner or person controlling him.

(a)

The dog shall be confined by a fence or wall and shall be kept within the enclosure, unless accompanied by a responsible person and restrained by a leash, rope or tether in the hands of such person.

(b)

Fences and/or walls must comply with the fence ordinance, Building and Building Regulations

I've been chased while riding my bike in town and it's no fun to have a dog barking at you and wanting to sick his teeth into your legs. I know I can pedal faster than a typical dog can run, so I don't give it too much thought.  When I jog, I honestly avoid residential areas for just such possibilities. This fat guy can't out run a dog.

But...

Is it that we need an addition to the code or do we need the existing codes followed and enforced?

We have an animal control officer and a code enforcement officer. 
We have an ordinance requiring dogs be confined by a fence or wall.  

Sounds like we need some responsible pet owners who need to be informed of City codes or here's your ticket with an up to $500 fine!

Dog and Cat Code