The Raleigh Police Department’s animal control unit is set to step up patrols on city greenway trails and in parks for unleashed pets, according to the division’s supervisor.
The increased enforcement of Raleigh’s leash ordinance is set to begin May 12 and last until September 1.
“We have had a few instances of unleashed dogs, whether it’s biting a runner, jogger, or attacking someone else’s pet that is leashed,” said Miya Hurley, animal control supervisor.
A spokesperson with RPD said the department has received an uptick in complaints regarding unleashed dogs in recent weeks.
The animal control unit did not disclose how frequent the patrols would be nor specified if parks would be patrolled more heavily.
“You’ll see us riding around in a Gator with a greenway officer and you’ll see one of our animal control officers,” Hurley said. “They will be trying to engage with as many citizens as possible to educate them on why we’re out here and what we’re trying to accomplish.”
According to the city of Raleigh’s leash ordinance, which bars domesticated animals from running at-large on public spaces, violators could face fines up to $500.
At Dorothea Dix Park, dog owner Kitt Smith said she tries to be aware of other animals as others may try to socialize their pets.
“Know before coming to the park or going anywhere the aggression of your dog and how it is around other dogs,” Smith said. “There was a dog found here last night, so they’re definitely out.”
Even though Smith said she is an avid dog walker, she agrees with penalties for leash law violators.
Hurley noted that as some dog owners have well-trained pets, the enforcement is meant to keep other animals and parkgoers safe.
“If those dogs get into a fight, breaking that up is going to look pretty bad for the public because that is opening everyone up to being bitten by a dog that you don’t know their vaccination status,” Hurley said.
According to RPD, most complaints are called in to a non-emergency line, but the department has also received numerous emails from concerned citizens regarding dogs running at large.
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