Legislative Report 11/07

(Forwarded by Rose Marie Mais, Editor, USKBTC Legislative News.)

Legislative Report 11-21-07
Authored by: Ken Sondej & Linda D. Witouski
American Kennel Club Legislative Liaison - Silver State Kennel Club, Legislative Liaison - National Pet Press, Legislative Liaison - Nevada Dog Fanciers Assc., Director Government Affairs and Legislative Advisor - Adopt A Rescue Pet, Nevada Director – Responsible Dog Owners Western States (RDOWS), Advisor - Indiana Animal Owners Alliance, Advisor to Clubs and groups in Southern Nevada, Arizona, California

Linda Witouski, American Kennel Club Judge, American Kennel Club Delegate - Myrtle Beach Kennel Club - SC, American Kennel Club Legislative Liaison - South Carolina & Pennsylvania, Legislative Liaison/Staff Writer - National Pet Press/TDP, Legislative Chair/BOD – Myrtle Beach Kennel Club, Legislative Chair - Yankee Miniature Pinscher Club, Member: NAIA, MOF, ERPT, DSJA, DJAA, MBKC, YMPC, MPCA

Handy TOLLFREE NUMBERS - Capitol Switchboard
Here are some toll-free numbers for the Capitol Switchboard:
1-866-220-0044
1-866-340-9281
1-877-851-6437
1-888-355-3588
1-800-833-6354
1-800-450-8293
1-877-762-8722
1-877-762-8762

FEDERAL

Senate Could Act on Protections for Pets
This week, the U.S. Senate is expected to take up the Farm Bill¬ - an omnibus agriculture policy bill that the Congress typically delves into every five years. If you remember, the House passed its Farm Bill in July, and there were two animal protection measures unanimously approved as amendments on the floor¬ - a provision to prevent pet theft and abuse by prohibiting the use in research of dogs and cats obtained from random source dealers (known as Class B dealers) and a provision to restrict the use of live animals in marketing demonstrations of medical devices. The Senate Agriculture Committee approved its Farm Bill a couple of weeks ago, and the measure is expected to hit the floor today. The Class B dealer amendment is expected to be offered by Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii), and the live animals in sales demonstrations amendment is also likely to be considered. There are two other pro-animal amendments planned, and at least one amendment that we must fight.

Sen. Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), the Majority Whip, is expected to offer an amendment to restrict the import of puppies from foreign puppy mills - ¬an ugly and largely unknown facet of an industry we thought could hardly be any worse. This measure will require that any dog imported into the United States for sale to the pet trade be at least six months old, and the rest of the blog .... click here.

STATES, IN ALPABETICAL ORDER

ARKANSAS

Arkadelphia - City Board approved on third reading and adopted an ordinance placing several restrictions on owners of pit bulls and pit bull mixes. They include a fenced enclosure, registration of the animal, implantation of a microchip for identification and a liability insurance policy for $100,000. It is estimated that the initial cost of complying with the ordinance totals $1,000. The ordinance also establishes a $500 fine for violating the measure, which also allows animal control personnel to euthanize a dog if it is not reclaimed by its owner. Passed 10/18/07

North Little Rock - Dog Ordinance revised text available upon request.

Salem (Fulton County) - council decided to review other communities' dog ordinances to see what revisions could be made to improve Salem's own law. They discussed the possibility of outlawing certain breeds of dogs such as pit bulls to be kept within city limits. The city is trying to deal with the problem of stray animals at large.

CALIFORNIA

Bernalillo County - Bernalillo County Commissioners and Animal Control officers held a public hearing Monday evening to hear about plans to toughen up the county’s animal laws. Dogcatchers want to make the county animal ordinances a lot stronger, especially on the issue of animal cruelty. The new proposals include higher license fees and mandatory micro-chipping. Cruelty laws would be expanded to include negligence, failure to provide basic veterinary care, and the amateur practices of ear-cropping, tail docking, and removing the dog’s ability to bark. Commissioners will consider higher permit fees for people who breed and sell animals, along with stricter record keeping requirements and inspections.

Huntington Beach - Ordinance 3787, the mandatory S/N proposal was put aside without a vote. The Council decided to revisit the issue on December 17th when they will discuss other options.

Huntington Beach - conflicting information out of Huntington Beach. City Council late Monday night turned a proposed mandatory spay, neuter and microchip law into an incentive-based program with increased fines for owning an unaltered dog or cat without a microchip. The heated, six-hour meeting Monday night ended with council members directing the city attorney to modify the sterilization and microchip program into a five-tiered discount program that will mirror rules already set up by Orange County Animal Care Services. There was no formal vote.

Kern County - proposed regs change zoning, create animal ownership limits and require an "animal fancier license" for anyone having more than 6 dogs /cats.

Livermore - adopt an ordinance that will put restrictions on dogs that are declared to be dangerous by the court. The liability insurance required to own what is concidered to be a dangerous dog would be $300,000. The ordinance is stricter than the current state law in several areas. This ordinance is not breed specific, but does include attacks on livestock. The ordinance A) prohibits transfer of the dangerous dog, B) requires special restraint including outlining where the animal could be kept in secure enclosures on the property, and C) requires owners of dangerous dogs to have $300,000 in liability insurance. Passed by residents - voted 34-19.

Marin County - changes to the county's animal control laws, aimed at putting teeth in regulations for dealing with dangerous dogs, define owners' responsibilities for dogs that have been declared "potentially dangerous" or "vicious", require owners of the dogs to post warning signs on their property and have the pets sterilized. The animals also would have to be tattooed or have a microchip implant identifying them as potentially dangerous. Owners who fail to meet the rules could be fined $500 in addition to paying the cost of the Marin Mediation Service's hearing process. Passed 10/23/07 Stockton - new city ordinance requiring pet owners to microchip their dogs and cats starts Thursday, affecting thousands of pet owners. The ordinance, which requires for the first time that cats be licensed, was adopted by the City Council last month. Among other things: » Like dogs, cats older than six months must be vaccinated against rabies and licensed by the city. Both dogs and cats must have microchip identification tags. A microchip, which is about the size of a grain of rice and is injected beneath the skin, can be scanned to identify the animal. A license for a neutered or spayed dog or cat costs $10 for one year, $15 for two years or $25 for three years. Seniors qualify for a discount. A license for an unaltered dog or cat costs $100 for one year, $120 for two years or $150 for a license that is good for three years. Seniors qualify for a discount. Text available upon request.

CONNECTICUT

Hartford - Attorney General Richard Blumenthal on Monday announced a new hot line for people to report suspected illegal cockfights and dogfights. It's part of a nationwide crackdown against animal fighting. "This hot line is a first step by Connecticut as part of a national effort to combat animal fighting through the National Association of Attorneys. "The Humane Society is joining us in this powerful partnership - providing a strong financial incentive for citizens to report a crime that degrades our humanity." The hot line number is (860) 808-5180. Humane Society of the United States announced $5,000 in rewards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in illegal animal fights.

FLORIDA

Tallahassee - HB 219 - An act relating to the Gertrude Maxwell Save a Pet Act; providing a short title; creating s. 570.236, F.S.; creating a direct-support organization for the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services; providing for the organization and operation of the direct-support organization; providing for a contract; providing for a board of directors; providing for the use of property, facilities, and personal services of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services by the direct-support organization; providing restrictions; providing for the deposit of moneys; providing for an annual audit; providing limits on the direct-support organization; specifying inapplicability of potentially conflicting provision of law; providing an effective date. Text available upon request.

Tallahassee - AB436 - bill allows a judge to order a pet be placed with a humane society if the divorcing parties are unable to stipulate to the placement of a pet. This bill takes away a person's Federal Fourteenth Amendment right to due process by allowing a judge to order personal property to be given to an organization WITHOUT COMPENSATION.

Tallahassee - SB38 - bill is suggesting that intact dogs can be used as a weapon. Partial text available upon request.

Boca Raton - Commissioners have endorsed a mandatory spay and neutering program for all dogs and cats. Commissioners haven't made it mandatory, the idea of responsible pet ownership is contained in city code.

Miami-Dade County - a hearing will be held November 28 to discuss microchipping and breed selective legislation. They will discuss repealing the ban on Pitbulls in the county.

Palm Beach County- proposed Animal Care and Control fee increases for Rabies License Tags Fees; Service Fees and Citation Fees; provide direction regarding mandatory spay/neuter of dogs and cats; and provide direction regarding backyard breeding of dogs and cats. Mandatory spay/neuter of all dogs and cats in PBC, intact license fee of $75 per dog or cat per year and breeder permits - you will be able to apply for a breeding permit by paying a $100 fee, filling out an application from Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control, allowing AC&C to come and "inspect" your home, and AC&C will do a "background check" to insure you aren't a criminal. Update: Voting on resolution November 20.

Pasco County - New Port Richey - considering tougher rules to deal with owners of aggressive or vicious animals. Proposed new rules would make pet owners legally responsible for the first bite.

Polk County - Animal Services' new policy regarding chows, Akitas, pit bulls and Rottweilers is to not adopt out these particular breeds.

Sarasota - City commissioners unanimously decided to adopt the county's stiffer "dangerous dogs" and leash ordinances. The ordinance will require dogs to be on a leash when not confined on their owners' property and allow county animal control officers to impound those considered "vicious." Violations come with up to $500 in fines and allows dogs to walk around leashless as long as they remain within 100 feet of their owners and are under voice command. Effective 11/05/07

Seminole County - is working on the language for a proposed anti tethering ordinance.

West Palm Beach -¬ commissioners appear ready to adopt a mandatory countywide pet sterilization policy, tapping into an emotional issue that affects thousands of pet owners and has already drawn howls from some animal lovers. An ordinance that will require most dogs and cats in the county to be spayed or neutered - the first policy of its kind in Florida - is being prepared for two public hearings and debate in December. At a workshop, commissioners were given a dire portrait of the county's pet overpopulation crisis and the emotional toll of putting to death 18,248 dogs and cats last year. They responded with sentimental stories of their own affection for animals and ordered their lawyers to draft a mandatory sterilization policy that would include a few exceptions. The proposed policy would demand that all dogs and cats be sterilized unless there's documented medical reason for the pet to not be sterilized, or that it's a proven show dog or cat, or that it's the property of a county-permitted animal breeder. To reduce the number of unwanted animals destroyed at county facilities and ease the amount of time and money spent dealing with feral animals, commissioners asked their staff to examine what it would take to establish a fleet of four or more mobile spay shuttles. Nothing appears to have been mentioned the Broward County SPCA imports dog from the Caribbean area.

GEORGIA

Athens-Clarke County- proposal set to come up for a commission vote, dogs would have to be kept inside, in a pen or other outdoor enclosure, on a leash or on the owner's property and within view - not tied up to a tree or other stationary object. The proposed ordinance, as it's written now, requires an enclosure large enough for a dog to "stand up, turn around, lay down, and make all other normal body movements in a normal and comfortable position appropriate to the age, size and health of the animal." Some commissioners have expressed their feelings that the ordinance is vague and what happens to dogs whose owners cannot afford fencing for a kennel.

Cobb County - The state Department of Agriculture, which oversees shelter licensing and inspections, informed Cobb it was withdrawing its May approval of the shelter's gas chamber. Agricultural Commissioner Tommy Irvin tells Cobb to "begin taking whatever steps are necessary to make arrangements for alternative means of euthanizing" the animals. New euthanasia methods go into effective 10/30/07

Rockdale County - no tethering ordinance was adopted by the Board of Commissioners. Passed 9/25/07

ILLINOIS

- Amends the Illinois Insurance Code. Provides that an insurer issuing a policy or contract insuring against liability for injury to any person or against liability for injury to or destruction of property, arising out of ownership or lease of residential one, 2, 3, or 4 dwelling real property, may cancel, charge, or impose an increased premium or rate for or refuse to issue or renew that kind of policy or contract based in whole or in part upon the harboring of a dog found to be vicious under the Animal Control Act upon the insured property. text available upon request. Update: Scheduled for third reading on the December Docket.

Berwyn - Owners of “aggressive” dogs in Berwyn will now have to take out a $100,000 insurance policy in case someone is harmed by the animal, according to a new ordinance. If dogs are found guilty of attacking someone, they can be banned from the city. The liability insurance would ensure that the owners of such dogs could pay for medical and other bills resulting from an attack, officials said. The insurance was one of the stipulations made within amendments to the city’s dangerous dog ordinance. If the dogs show any aggressive behavior, now they will be dealt with, regardless of breed. Passed 10/24/07 Effective 11/03/07 Update: Berwyn is imposing new rules and penalties on residents who own what the city considers to be dangerous dogs. Mayor Michael O'Connor says a dog must first be declared dangerous by the police chief who explains a dog is not considered dangerous unless it menaces a person. City Council will also be discussing mandatory microchipping at the next meeting.

Burnham - Considering BSL. Update:A local breed advocate called the Burnham police chief and got him to pull the BSL from consideration. Even though BSL is off the table, something just as bad could take its place though so local breed advocates continue to monitor the situation.

INDIANA

Fort Wayne - The Dangerous Dog Input Group panel held a "public imput" meeting on how to help prevent dog attacks . The following decisions were the out come: regarding breed ban such as pit-bulls - no on bred banning, will consider includes stricter leash laws, and a possible requirement for some animals to be spayed or neutered, serious repercussions for owners of pets that do attack, and stepped up efforts to educate the public. Tethering laws - will also recommend dogs cannot be chained outside from 11 at night to 6 in the morning. City council will look over the panel's suggestions and finalize details of the proposal. A vote could come by the end of the year. Committee's list of recommendations to city - Mandatory spaying and neutering, regardless of the severity of the bite. . No tethering of dogs younger than 6 months old. . No tethering dogs between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. . Tethered dogs must be kept three feet from property lines and public rights of way, including in fenced yards. . Only three dogs can be tethered at one house at one time. Fort Wayne residents who want to tether their dogs outside or whose dogs escape and bite may be forced to have them spayed or neutered.

New Richmond - at the town council meeting prior to the forum, all three members voted to approve the amended section of the vicious animals ordinance to ban pit bull breeds from within the town limits. This was the third and final reading of the ordinance. Pit bulls already in the community will be grandfathered in, but no additional animals of this breed will be allowed in the town. The ban was added as a precautionary measure for this type dog even though there has never been problem with any Pitbull. Passed 11/05/07

Wabash - a citizen’s proposal before the City Council is calling for tougher regulations against pitbulls. The Council unanimously agreed to have the mayor look into the issue. Mayor Bob Vanlandingham, in turn, asked the Council members to talk to their constituents in an effort to get a feeling for what the community wants in this arena. In his proposal Dave Monroe (citizen) wants - Require a permit to own a pit bull - Have owners carry liability insurance in the amount of $50,000. (He noted that most homeowners insurance does not cover pit bulls, and, in fact, some insurance companies will cancel your insurance if they find out you own a pit bull.) - Require owners to have the pit bull checked by a veterinarian every year. - Require owners to have a facility to adequately confine the animal(s).

KANSAS

Wichita - City Council - Dogs that aggressively chase people and are deemed dangerous by city animal officers must have identifying microchips and be sterilized under rules approved unanimously by the Wichita City Council. The city will track statistics involving dangerous animals for the next six months and, at that time, consider whether the ordinance needs even tighter restrictions. Passed 11/06/07

Wichita - City Council approved the vicious dog ordinance. While they unanimously supported the changes for dogs, they debated the threat of a wallaby. The ordinance means owner's of dangerous dogs will pay higher fines for dog bites. And they'll be forced to sterilize their dogs caught running at large more than once. "The fees and fines will escalate that people will fix their fences and take care of being responsible for vicious pets," The council will get monthly updates on the dog ordinance. After six months, if it doesn't look like its working, the city will consider stiffer laws possibly targeting specific breeds. Regarding the wallaby - one clause focuses on removing fur bearing mammals. Wallabys are not mammals, they are marsupials . Sounds like another city council who makes laws and are totally uneducated regarding the topics.

KENTUCKY

Independence - city council has decided to amend their current animal ordinance to one of breed specific restrictions of 'pit bulls' by: 1. Spaying/neutering. 2. Microchipping. 3. Muzzling whenever outside of home or kennel and on a 3 foot leash. 4. Obtaining $100,000 insurance. 5. Registering each year with at least 2 photos on file. 6. Outside enclosure specifically defined. 7. Signage visible from nearby road. 'Pit bulls' are defined as "Any dog that exhibits those distinguishing characteristics which substantially conform to the standards established by the American Kennel Club for American Staffordshire Terrier, or Staffordshire Bull Terriers, or substantially conform to the standards established by the United States Kennel Club for American Pit Bull Terriers, including any mixed breed of dog which contains as an element of its breeding as the breed of Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, or American Pit Bull Terrier." Independence - UPDATE - dog owners are advised to maintain close supervision of their pets following city council's first reading on a vicious dog ordinance. Ordinance, which will go into effect following a second reading during the Dec. 3 meeting, owners will be fined $500 if a dog bite is reported. The animal must also be registered with the city as a vicious animal. Council elected to remove specific dog breeds from the ordinance in hopes of avoiding court challenges. Ordinance lists four criteria in defining a vicious dog, including: Any dog that has caused death or serious injury to a person engaged in lawful activity. Any dog that has attacked or bitten, without provocation, a person engaged in lawful activity. Any dog that has killed or injured another animal after the owner has been given written or verbal notice to keep the animal confined or muzzled. Any dog that has been declared to be vicious by a physician attending to a person who has been bitten or attacked by said dog. Passed 11/05/07

LOUISIANA

Baton Rouge - proposed ordinance would allow animal control officers to use their own judgment as to whether a dog poses a threat to public safety even if the dog is in a fenced yard and even further by giving animal control officers probable cause to investigate any resident's complaint about fenced dogs that in their opinion, could pose serious and imminent threats. The proposed ordinance allows a dog owner to be charged with a misdemeanor if it severely bites or mauls a person or animal while it is in a fenced yard.

MARYLAND

Baltimore County - considering a proposal to impose significant restrictions on pit bull owners that requires the dogs to be kept in a locked cage or muzzled. The proposal includes any animal deemed menacing by the county's animal control office and requires pit bull owners to post warning signs. Proposal Failed 6-1 vote 1015/07

Frostburg - new proposed ordinance to classify a dog as a nuisance or as a danger. When a dog receives the nuisance moniker, it has been determined to pose a threat to public safety by: Chasing or menacing a person or domestic animal in an aggressive manner without being provoked, Running at large or being impounded no less than two times within 12 months. Having the owner cited two or more times within 12 months by the Allegany County Animal Control, Acting in a highly aggressive manner within a fenced yard or enclosure and appearing to be able to jump over the fence or leave the enclosure. Damaging the property of anyone other than the owner. Dogs that are behaving even worse may be declared dangerous by: Attacking, though unprovoked, a person or domestic animal and causing serious injury, Continuing to break nuisance dog rules after already being classified as such, Having been classified by Allegheny County as a vicious animal. Owners of dogs declared nuisances must provide evidence to the city that the pet has been licensed, vaccinated, and neutered or spayed. In addition, the dog will be allowed outdoors only within an enclosure or on a 4-foot or shorter leash and muzzled. A public meeting on Nov. 15. - the mayor and council will decide whether to require owners of dangerous dogs to have liability insurance policies for their pets. A dog declared dangerous is a life sentence for the animal, with no pardons no matter how much time passes. A first violation of the rules brings a minimum fine of $500. A second violation carries a $1,000 fine. Subsequent violations have fines of $1,000 and up to 90 days in jail, for the owner, that is. Any dogs already in the city are grandfathered in meaning that a dog that broke the rules before the ordinance is enacted won’t be declared a nuisance or dangerous. Ordinance is based upon one provided by the Humane Society of the United States.

Wicomico County - new ordinance rules a dog can be considered dangerous after one bite. Old legislation allowed a dog to bite twice before it was considered dangerous. Passed 10/16/07 and goes into effect immediately when signed.

MASSACHUSETTS

Lynn - City Council President Timothy Phelan said last week's brutal dog attack has stirred up a range of emotions and has resurrected the debate on a possible pit bull ban in Lynn. Phelan said he met with City Solicitor Michael Barry and Animal Control Officer Kevin Farnsworth on Thursday and plans to meet with members of the police and the City Council next week to strategize ways to either ban the particular breed, or enforce stricter muzzle laws for safety measures. Aggressively pursue ways to increase fines, change ordinances and also attempt to ban pit bulls from the city.

MICHIGAN

Lansing - one-page petition asks for state and/or federal legislation that regulates dog ownership, rather than a breed-specific ban on dogs.

Hazel Park - City Council held a study session recently to consider whether to adopt a new ordinance aimed at modifying the definition of a "dangerous animal" and whether homeowners can keep them in their yards. Proposed ordinance is an attempt to keep the owners of pit bulls from ever taking their animals out of a confined space without a leash and muzzle. Under the proposed ordinance, any resident that owns a pit bull, or other dangerous animal as defined by law, would be required to register with the city and keep liability insurance worth $1 million. The ordinance would also require that pit pull owners hang a "beware of dog" sign, fit the dog with a brightly colored collar and keep them in an enclosed pen when they are outdoors. The pit bull permit would cost $50 if the ordinance were approved. City Council did approve a different animal ordinance that aims to keep residents from feeding stray animals. It is now illegal to place a container on the ground to offer nourishment to stray animals, the ordinance reads. "That can draw rodents," said Parisi. "That was driven by complaints by residents. We live so close. There are so many houses close together, things like that cause more problems. They made us aware that it was a problem." Feeding stray animal ordinance was passed 10/23/07.

North Muskegon - ordinance is NOT breed-specific, has a definition of “dangerous dog”, “vicious dog”, and “cruelty” and a limit of three dogs and four cats. The ordinance also allows a dog owner whose dog was declared “dangerous” an opportunity to prove otherwise, and also allows a 21-day period where this decision can be appealed. Passed 10/15/07.

Van Buren Township - proposal/discussion to change the number of dogs allowed in a home.

MINNESOTA

Apple Valley - One Twin Cities suburb is trying a unique approach. Leaders in Apple Valley say they can't ban dangerous dogs outright so they're looking for a loophole. A proposal would require dangerous dogs to live in the 200 plus acres of Apple Valley that are zoned industrial. The catch is people can't have homes on these properties, meaning its impossible for dogs to live there legally.

Cottage Grove - discussing proposed changed to the city’s dangerous dog ordinance that could place more responsibility on dog owners. Proposed changes to the Cottage Grove dog ordinance include forcing dogs deemed dangerous to be leashed and muzzled when off the owner’s property, posting “Beware of Dog” signs and requiring notification of rental property owners where a dangerous dog lives.

Minneapolis - proposing ordinance targeting dog owners that does not target certain breeds, but rather the owners. The new ordinance would not allow an individual convicted of a felony to own a dog larger than 20 pounds. The owners of a dog that has been deemed dangerous would have to undergo training. The dog would also have to be licensed and have a tracking microchip implanted. The owner would also become financially responsible for the animal and would have to have $350,000 in insurance.

Minneapolis - proposed revamping of the Minneapolis ordinance governing dangerous animals will be up for a public hearing. The proposal deals with terms, requirements, fees and fines for owners of dangerous and potentially dangerous animals and would set new requirements on felons who own an animal that weighs more than 20 pounds or that poses a public safety danger if misused.

MISSOURI
Joplin - proposed ordinance changes aimed at cutting down on animal nuisances in the city. A panel of health department workers and veterinarians are recommending that the city restrict people from keeping litters of puppies and kittens. Another change would prohibit feeding feral animals.

Kansas City - Animal Ordinance - breed selective. text available upon request Merriam Woods - Board of Trustees of Merriam Woods is expected to vote Tuesday night (11/13/07) on an ordinance banning pit bull dogs inside the boundaries of Merriam Woods. The ordinance, which is based on Springfield's [AR] ordinance, focuses on responsible pet ownership more than prohibiting the breed. If passed, the regulations would be effective immediately and would impose several requirements on current pit bull owners. Every pit bull would be required to be registered with the Merriam Woods Police Department. Proof of current rabies vaccination, sterilization and microchip implantation would be necessary to register the animal, along with a $50 fee. In addition, the police department would be required to photograph the dog and maintain a registration file for every dog. "To protect the public", pit bulls would also be required to be kept indoors or outside in a locked pen on property that is posted with warning signs. If the pit bull is being transported to or from its home, it will be required to be leashed and muzzled and locked in a secure, temporary enclosure in a vehicle.

NEBRASKA

South Sioux City - proposed ordinance re-defines a vicious dog as one that bites a person or injures or kills another animal. If a dog is deemed vicious, the pet owner must take out extra homeowner's insurance totaling $250,000. If the owners can't get insurance, their pet can't stay in the city. There are also new regulations to follow regarding fencing, signage, licensing and shots. The proposal does not eliminate dogs out of the city by being breed specific, it does place more onerous issues on the people who have dogs that are potentially dangerous.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Concord - HB585-FN - AN ACT requiring all animal shelter facilities, pet shops and commercial kennels to collect a neutering deposit when placing a cat or dog that has not been neutered. Text available upon request.

NEW JERSEY

Princeton Borough - special municipal panel focused on dog regulations in Princeton is grappling with what changes, if any, the community should seek to make Princeton a safer place for both people and dogs - potentially dangerous or vicious dogs. One change that the Princeton’s animal control officer, Mark Johnson, would like to see -- on a statewide level -- is some kind of reform that "puts a leash" on animal rescue organizations and puppy mills that adopt or sell dogs to people who might love dogs but have no clue about responsibly overseeing them. Changes could include a higher degree of protection in the law for guide dogs and a requirement that veterinarians report dog-on-dog bites to local or state officials. The dog subcommittee's next meeting -- it plans to have two more before making its recommendations to the health commission -- is planned for Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. in borough hall.

NEW MEXICO

Bernalillo County - Animal Control Ordinance, Bernalillo County Code Chapter Six, (the Ordinance) was enacted to protect animals from neglect and abuse, to protect residents from annoyance and injury, and to encourage responsible ownership of animals as pets. The Ordinance was last amended in April 1999. The purpose of this public meeting is to present proposed amendments to the Ordinance. The purpose of these amendments is to better align the Ordinance with State and City laws, to clarify language in the existing Ordinance, and to implement a new fee and permit structure. Commissioners and the Animal Control and Protection Department are working to schedule several Public Hearing Meetings concerning the pending revisions of the Animal Control Ordinance.

Bernalillo County - proposed mandatory S/N changes to the ordinance. It appears the exemption for "show dogs" has been removed and a "special permit" is required. To obtain a "special permit" you must have records for a microchip. (The county has no way to store information regarding microchips and/or tattoos.) Ordinance limits six dogs or cats or combination per household. Leashes may not exceed 6 foot. Text available upon request.

NEW YORK

New Rochelle - new ordinance limits unleashed dog walking to the hours before 10 a.m. and after 4 or 5 p.m., depending on the season. Further, it requires that anyone wishing to take his or her dog to Ward Acres, either with a leash or without, must get a special Ward Acres dog permit. The permit, which includes a photo of the dog owner, costs $50 a year for residents and $250 for nonresidents.

Wheatfield - Niagara County - a mounting campaign to address recent attacks by dogs have raised concerns that tougher restrictions are needed to keep the animals on a tighter leash or even on a leash at all. Dogs that have the reputation of being used as urban fight dogs or tools in the illegal drug trade are the ones that worry parents and dog owners the most. Pit bulls and Rottweilers were the breeds most residents mentioned when interviewed about dog control. No proposals as of yet but some residents are pushing for changes in the animal control ordinance.

NORTH CAROLINA

Duplin County - County Commissioners voted yesterday (10/17/07) to pull the draft ordinance regarding dog/cat registration and Hunting Kennel License to be established. License and registration fees will be collected by veterinarians at the same time rabies vaccinations are administered. Revision will define the definition for abandonment which states dogs left on any currently unoccupied property are considered to be abandoned from further consideration. The County plans to form an animal advisory committee to work on an ordinance for review at a future date.

Forsyth County - County commissioners asked the county's Animal Control Advisory Board to research the extent of aggressive dogs in the county and to come up with potential solutions. The board will debate many different solutions, from banning certain aggressive dog breeds to imposing higher licensing fees for certain dogs, such as pit bulls, to passing a leash law. Dogs can cause public-safety issues and consume public resources, there are 11 breeds of dogs that insurance companies commonly label as aggressive, including pit bulls, Doberman pinschers and Rottweilers. This stems from dogs at large. Commissioners are not leaning toward breed-specific regulations.

Henderson County - proposed ordinance regarding enforcement of S/N and a animal must be sterilized the FIRST time it's picked up by AC.

Jackson County - Drafting - Animal Control Ordinance names Rottweilers and Pit Bulls as potentially dangerous dogs. Upate: Jackson County Commissioners will hold a workshop on November 8 at 6 PM in the Commissioners Boardroom, 401 Grindstaff Cove Road, Sylva NC to discuss the ordinance draft.

OHIO

Columbus - HB71 - To amend sections 955.28 and 959.16, to enact new section 959.132 and section 959.161, and to repeal section 959.132 of the Revised Code to provide for the seizure, impoundment, and disposition of roosters involved in cockfighting and dogs involved in dogfighting; to revise requirements and procedures governing the seizure, impoundment, and disposition of companion animals that are the subject of abuse or neglect; and to clarify that the authority conferred upon a person to kill an attacking dog does not include the authority to kill a police dog. Text available upon request.

Columbus - HB366 - To amend sections 955.11 and 955.221 of the Revised Code to remove pit bulls from the definition of "vicious dog" in state law and to authorize the adoption of local ordinances or resolutions that define "dangerous dog" and "vicious dog" more broadly than state law defines those terms. Text available upon request.

Athens - proposed ordinance limiting the ownership of pit-bull terriers in the city. The ordinance, which is based on an ordinance in Toledo, states that no person, organization or corporation can keep more than one pit-bull terrier or pit-bull mixed-breed dog. If the pit bull has puppies, the owner would have to file a form with the Athens County dog warden and transfer ownership of the puppies by the time they are 3 months old and requires owners who take pit bulls off of their properties to keep them on leashes and keep them muzzled. Athens Law Director Garry Hunter said "I don't want a proliferation of pit bulls (in Athens)" because the pit-bull rescue organization knows that Athens has no ordinance in place regarding pit bulls, the group may start placing dogs that need to be adopted with people in the city. Hunter is pushing the proposed ordinance.

Butler County - Cincinnati - City Council is weighing his proposal to enact an anti tethering ordinance. Liberty Township Trustee David Kern said, "I don't think it's inordinately cruel to tether or restrain an animal, whether it's a horse, a cow or a dog. I would not be in favor of banning the chaining of dogs." Kern also said he is skeptical of reforms backed by PETA. "PETA is an extremist group that is detrimental to our nation," he said.

Crawford County - Bucyus- County Dog Warden wants to inform all owners, keepers and harborers of dogs belonging to the breed commonly known as pit bulls, that due to a recent Ohio Supreme Court decision, these dogs shall be covered by liability insurance coverage in the amount of $100,000. These dogs must be properly confined in a locked kennel with a top, a locked fence or other locked enclosure that has a top. While these dogs are off the premises of the owner, keeper or harborer, they must be walked on a chain-linked leash or tether that is not more than 6 feet in length and under control of a person of suitable age to adequately restrain such a dog.

Erie - increase in the number of attacks and other incidents involving pit bulls in the city has police considering an ordinance that would tighten regulations for owners of the dogs, including higher licensing fees. Police and animal enforcement officials said they aren't considering a complete ban. but they would like to see restrictions on the owners. higher licensing fees; an 18-year-old age minimum for walking a pit bull; and mandatory identification chips that would identify owners when strays are found. Any ordinance proposed by the Erie Bureau of Police would have to be approved by City Council.

Geauga County - County Dog Warden Matt Granito said he has no choice but to enforce the state law until it is changed. A 2004 Ohio Supreme Court decision effectively defined the American Staffordshire Terrier, also known as the pit bull, as the only "vicious" breed in the state. Effective 10/25/07.

Lorain - proposed ordinance bans Pitbulls. The ban applies to any dogs whose blood line is that of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull or any dog "whose appearance or characteristics render it identifiable as partially of one or more such breeds.

OKLAHOMA

Oklahoma City - State Representative Lee Denney (a veterinarian by trade) has written a draft of a law called the Oklahoma Pet Quality Assurance and Protection Act a big step toward regulating dog breeders across the state. The draft of the bill states that people who sell more than 25 dogs a year must get a Quality Assurance License. To qualify for a Quality Assurance License breeders must be at least 21-years-old and pass a written exam. They must also meet some basic requirements including breeding standards, housing and sanitation, veterinary care, exercise and socialization and lineage certification. The requirements will be enforced by inspectors.

Oklahoma City - new law describing "abandon" and "neglect" revisions (Title 4 - Section 512). If a law enforcement officer who has reason to believe that an animal has been abandoned or neglected in violation of Sections 1685 or 1692 through 1700 of Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes, the officer may apply in a court of competent jurisdiction for a warrant to seize the animal. Effective 11/01/07 Text available upon request.

PENNSYLVANIA

Harrisburg - HB1065 - Dog Tethering Bill one-size-fits-all since abusive tie-outs of dogs is already illegal under Humane Laws. Recommitted to the House Appropriations Committee.

Harrisburg - HB1926 - An Act amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, further providing for the offense of cruelty to animals. (Dog fighting). Referred to AGRICULTURE AND RURAL AFFAIRS, Oct. 18, 2007 Text available upon request.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Spartanburg - city council is working on changing the laws on Animal Ordinance in the city. If a person has 5 or more animals, the animal control officer has the right to go on the property, and inspect how the animals are being kept. Also, if someone does own 5 animals, it will cost $100 a year, plus an increase in license fees of $10 annually for owners of sterile animals and $40 annually for owners of unaltered animals. Owners of sterile animals can purchase a lifetime license for $50.

SOUTH DAKOTA

Rapid City - City and County turned over all animal control and Shelter to the Humane Society. Thinking this would save time for their officers and money for the tax payers. (Boy were they wrong.) They started out giving the shelter as it was to the HS and $60,000 per year. Plus the HS got all monies from licensing, fines and adoptions. The dollar figure has raised every year (within 8 years) to over $300,000 per year.

TENNESSEE

Frankfort - Fayetteville County Commissioner Anne Bankston and a few others are asking state legislators to pass a law forcing vicious dog owners to carry a minimum of $300,000 of liability insurance, and requiring those dogs to wear a microchip that will store information about the animal and its owner. What breeds will actually be classified as vicious dogs under this proposal aren't known yet, but commissioners say that list will certainly include pit bulls. The resolution has been sent to the office of State Sen. Bill Ketron.

Dyer - Board of Aldermen in late September passed a law banning ownership of pit bulls and other vicious dogs. Residents were given a month to comply. Those who already own pit bulls are allowed to keep them if they comply with other provisions in the ordinance. The city also has passed an ordinance limiting the number of dogs and cats residents can own. Effective 10/24/07

Lincoln County - commissioners are discussing APBT restrictions and or bans.

TEXAS

Copperas Cove - City Council discussing a proposal to ban specific breeds of dogs. The state of Texas prohibits breed specific legislation.

Garland - a dogfight brewing in Garland, and the fur may fly statewide before it's over. The issue is legislation that would make pit bull owners jump through extra hoops such as building higher fences or buying special insurance. Though Garland officials aren't talking about banning pit bulls outright, opponents fear that might be the next step. The Texas Health & Safety Code prohibits breed-specific local ordinances.

Irving - a proposed ordinance that would criminalize tethering unattended dogs - any time, any place. The proposed ordinance goes beyond a state law that went into effect in September that specifies how dogs can be tied up and limits the time period that dog owners can tether their pets to between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Passed 11/01/07

San Antonio - city ordinance is moving along and will be heard behind closed doors on October 17. This is not limited to dogs or cats and not limited to the city limits. As goes the city, goes the county by ordinance passed years ago. This will affect everyone with any kind of animals, dogs, cats, goats, sheep, chickens, cattle. I checked out the city limit and there are ranches within. This also will extend to Bexar County. All animals will be regulated - microchipped - spayed - neutered - no breeders allowed without breeding permits.

VIRGINIA

Richmond - Department of Game and Inland Fisheries once again is looking into the use of dogs for hunting in Virginia. The level and tone of these comments has become increasingly challenging, suggesting strongly that we examine more closely, in a proactive and positive fashion, the relationship between hound hunters and other citizens of the Commonwealth. The department recognizing the need for hunting as an essential wildlife management tool and as a popular recreational activity, the Department is committed to: promoting hunting in Virginia that meets the highest standards of ethics and sportsmanship; ensuring that the tradition of hunting with hounds in Virginia continues; addressing the interests of hunters, landowners and other citizens.

Richmond - City Council OKs dog ordinance that makes it punishable by fines and jail time to leave a dog tethered for more than an hour a day. The ordinance would make it unlawful for owners to fail to give their dogs adequate space, as defined by state law, or to tether them for more than one hour cumulatively in a 24-hour period. A first offense would be a Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500. A second offense would be a Class 2 misdemeanor, with a fine of up to $1,000 and jail up to six months. A third offense or more would be a Class 1 misdemeanor, with a fine of up to $2,500 and 12 months in jail. It appears there was no public notification of the ordnance except for those in favor of anti-tethering. Passed 10/22/07

WASHINGTON

Tacoma - Pet owners who commit three or more animal control violations in a 24-month period could be declared "problem pet owners" and forced to surrender all of their animals under a sweeping update of Tacoma's animal control ordinance. The overhaul also would expand the definition of dangerous and potentially dangerous dogs, enact a complete ban on roosters in the city limits, and make it a civil infraction to sell or give away puppies or kittens born to an unlicensed animal. Owners would be required to include the mother's license number in any published advertisements of puppies or kittens.

WASHINGTON D.C.

Washington DC - 17-0089 - puts your dog in peril. Suddenly, and by no fault of your own, you can be fined and your pet seized -- AND KILLED -- no matter how friendly it is. If you own a "pit bull" breed or mix, or American Bulldog, or ANY LARGE dog, please join the DC Dog Coalition for information on how to tell the City Council to REMOVE the following from the proposed legislation 17-0089: "(6) "Potentially dangerous dog" means any dog of a certain breed that the Mayor has determined to be potentially dangerous." AND "Sec. 2a. Potentially dangerous dogs. "In consultation with the Department of Health, the Mayor may establish a list of potentially dangerous dogs breeds. Such list shall be revised periodically and shall be based upon information including breed characteristics and evidence of adverse incidents in the District." If this law passes, at any time, any present or future mayor could suddenly decide that any breed or type of dog could be declared dangerous...including YOURS!! Even if you are a responsible dog owner and even if your dog never harmed a soul, you are not safe from this law!

WEST VIRGINIA

Logan - Enforcement of new vicious dog laws takes effect November 20th, the last day you have to register your dog. The breeds that fit the requirement are Pit Bulls, Doberman Pinchers, Rottweilers or any dog of the Wolfe species. There is a fee of $300 to register the animal. If the dog is not registered by the Tuesday deadline the city will quarantine the dog.

WISCONSIN

Madison - AB436 - bill allows a judge to order a pet be placed with a humane society if the divorcing parties are unable to stipulate to the placement of a pet. This bill takes away a person's Federal Fourteenth Amendment right to due process by allowing a judge to order personal property to be given to an organization WITHOUT COMPENSATION. Text available upon request.

Madison - AB567 - relating to: the sale of dogs, regulation of certain dog breeders, granting rule-making authority, making an appropriation, and providing a penalty. referred to committee on Consumer Protection and Personal Privacy in the Assembly Text available upon request.

Madison - SB162 - Relating to: extending domestic abuse restraining orders and injunctions to include abuse to animal. referred to committee on Judiciary, Corrections, and Housing. Ttext available upon request.

Madison - SB308- relating to: the sale of dogs, regulation of certain dog breeders, granting rule-making authority, making an appropriation, limit of 8 breeding females and providing a penalty. Referred to committee on Small Business, Emergency Preparedness, Workforce Development, Technical Colleges and Consumer Protection text available upon request - Update: Proposed changes available upon request.

Belleville - residents are pushing Village Commission with concerns about vicious dogs in the area have spun "out of control". So far vicious dogs are being discuss in general and no breed specific.

Menomonee Falls - General Government committee discussing some revisions to existing animal codes, specifically trying to make it easier for the Village to prosecute people who allow their pets to be a nuisance.

Stevens Point - City Attorney Molepske noted that he did not address the Pit bull/Rottweiler issue. It was the consensus of a meeting with the Humane Society not to go in that direction since the real issue is one of ownership and not breed. The amendment does place a limit on the number of dogs and cats, he limited the number to three, but the number is up to the Council. Limits of farm animals are based on each situation. In terms of wild animals, the Council could change the language to say dangerous wild animals which would allow other animals. Proposal is pending.

OF INTEREST - OTHER COUNTRIES

Australia
New South Wales - legislation introduced would outlaw the selling of cats and dogs in pet shops.

Chile
Santiago - a bill before the Senate proposes more rigorous control of 12 potentially dangerous breeds of dogs, among them Rottweilers and Dobermans. These breeds would need to be housed in solid enclosures and wear leashes and muzzles when in public. If a dog presented a direct safety risk, local police would be authorized to put the dog to sleep or place it with a caretaker. The bill also reinforces a current law that holds negligent owners responsible if their dogs injure or kill someone.

New Zealand
Auckland - forced spay neuter of dangerous dogs and dangerous dog breeds that the government deems "dangerous". Councils will now have the ability to basically force any dog to be neutered which they see as dangerous or in their words, "menacing." On the sterilization hit list are American Pit Bull Terriers, Dogo Argentino, Brazilian Fila, Japanese Tosa. A ban has also been put into effect which will stop all presna canario dogs from entering the country and being imported in. These dangerous dogs are known for their fighting. The new law will allow all local councils the power to physically seize dogs that council staff consider menacing and neuter them. The government is also considering a range of other changes. One of them involves the compulsory rounding up and destruction of dogs that rush at people, a controversial law change the government is seeking feedback on. Proposed changes to dog control legislation could become law by early next year.

Spain
Madrid - new dog Licence laws No 50/99 effective by the end of the year. The list of dogs considered dangerous has been drawn up as follows:- Pit Bull and all Bull breeds, All Mastiffs, Canary Island Prey Dog, Caucasian Shepherd, Bordeaux, Brazilian Fila, Akita, Doberman, Rottweiller, Corsican Cane, German Shepherds and most dogs over 25 Kilos (appx 55 lbs) in weight. The new decree prohibits the training of dogs to attack, or to guard or defend their owners or to give them any sort of training that might increase their aggressiveness. Dogs are banned from area's where children play. Dogs must wear a muzzle in all public places and be kept on a leash at all times. Leads must not be longer than one meter in length. A lost dog must be reported to the Police immediately. All dogs that have any record of human or dog aggression or any dog that shows aggressive behavior or any dog considered by the authorities to be dangerous, must now be registered and in possession of a special Licencia Municipal. If you want to walk your potentially dangerous dog without a muzzle, you and your dog will have to pass a test with a vet. You will also need to present 2 pictures of yourself and your dog must have a chip for personal identification underneath his skin. Pet owners are required by law to obtain a special insurance for their dogs with a liability of at least 120.000 euros. You will have to apply for a document from the Ministry for the Interior, confirming that you do not have a criminal record.

Last Updated: 11/23/2007, 1:05 pm