An ordinance proposed at the May 7 city council meeting would impose strict restrictions on the keeping of dangerous animals within the city.
Concern has been growing among the police department and city officials about risks to residents posed by dangerous dogs, particularly pit bulls. The ordinance would designate the breed as inherently dangerous.
That change would place requirements on the type of pens used to house the dogs. The enclosures would have to include a 6-foot fence, a top screen, a concrete pad and be designed to prevent the accidental entry of children.
Such “dangerous” dogs would have to be on a leash when out of the pen and would have to be supervised when in a regular fenced yard.
The ordinance would also require secure windows and doors if the dogs are kept within a residence, ruling out the use of screened openings that could easily be compromised.
Owners of dangerous dogs would be required to muzzle their pets when they are outside of their pens for exercise or veterinary care. The owners will also be required to carry a $100,000 surety bond against damage or injury.
Owners would be required to post a “beware of dog” sign and the animal must be microchipped and wear a red collar or harness.
Dogs of other breeds could be classified as dangerous by the ruling of a three-member board composed of the chief of police, a veterinarian and another official.
Failure to comply with the ordinance would result in penalties and possibly the confiscation and euthanasia of the animal.
The ordinance would
also require the annual registration of all dogs and codify the procedures for dealing with other animals, including fowl, allowed to run loose and ruled to be a nuisance.
The proposal will be discussed further at the council’s May 21 meeting.
