Who Let the Dogs Out?

As inner-city residents, we all value the virtues and benefits of urban life. But living in the city also entails certain responsibilities. Among these responsibilities is the duty to keep your dog on a leash and under control at all times.

Neighbors are reminded that dogs should not be allowed to roam or run unrestrained, even on your own property, where they can approach and/or threaten passing children, other pedestrians, bicyclists, other dogs, or vehicular traffic.

Madison Public Health, Animal Control section, reminds all dog owners of the following ordinance requirements within the city of Madison:

* You must keep you dog leashed when off our property unless you are within the off-leash exercise areas in parks where dogs are allowed.

* You must not allow your dog to trespass on private or public property or run at large, unleashed or unattended.

* You must prevent your dog from injuring any person, property or other animal.

* Never allow your dog to bark at, intimidate, attack, or threaten a person or pet.

Neighbors should know that failure to follow these and other rules might result in citations and fines ranging from $67 to $283.

For more information, contact the Madison Department of Public Health, Animal Control Section at 267-1989.