PORTSMOUTH, Ohio (WCHS) — Too many dogs are running loose in neighborhoods in Portsmouth has city leaders taking action. City council is considering legislation to crack down on repeat offenders to the dog ordinance while giving residents the chance to offer proof of a dog running loose.
As the weather gets warmer, more and more people will go outside. City leaders in Portsmouth want to make sure that when people head outside, they feel safe and are safe when it comes to a dog running loose.
“99% of dog owners are responsible dog owners,” said Portsmouth City Councilman Sean Dunne.
He says there is a small minority of dog owners who let their animals run free. Dunne adds there have been examples of attacks and people fearful of going outside because of concerns over stray dogs. He’s sponsoring an ordinance to put some teeth into the current law.
“What we find it’s not very specific and it falls short of addressing people who are repeat offenders,” said Dunne.
The proposed ordinance increases fines for repeat offenders within a three-year period, encouraging people to act immediately regarding why the dog is running loose. It also gives people the chance to document a dog running loose in their neighborhood.
“I think it’s all in how you raise them and train them. They are going to act the way they act if they know if it is ok or not,” said Katherine Brickey, a dog owner in Portsmouth.
“It’s going to create less people mistreating their dogs, but really taking into consideration what you have to do to keep your dog healthy and sane all times I think should be fined,” said Enrique Rosado, a dog owner in Portsmouth,
Dunne also points out the proposed ordinance protects the dog.
“If a dog is on the loose, if they are running through traffic they might get hit by a car and what we are trying to do is not only protect residents in Portsmouth but also protect dogs and make sure owners are being responsible,” said Dunne.
The proposed dog ordinance will have three readings before city council. They are expected to vote on the measure sometime this spring.
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