New rules for animal care, sales take effect Feb. 16

City Council has approved an ordinance prohibiting the unlawful restraint of dogs, the sale of animals from public property, the use of animals as prizes and the transportation of animals in the open bed of a vehicle. The new rules take effect on Monday, Feb. 16.

As of that date, the following provisions will be added to the ordinance:

· It will be illegal to leave a dog outdoors and unattended by use of a restraint that unreasonably limits the dog’s movement. Dogs restrained and left unattended outdoors must be kept in a yard that is enclosed by a fence or enclosed structure that prevents unauthorized access by another person or stray dogs and other animals.

· No live animal can be sold or given away on public property or any property to which the public has access that is not certified to sell animals. The only exceptions are city animal service employees and non-profit animal welfare or adoption agencies.

· Animals can no longer be given away as a prize, a promotional tool or an inducement to participate in a fund-raising event. This includes raffles and similar giveaways.

· It will be illegal to carry or transport an animal in the open bed of any moving pickup, flatbed or similar vehicle operating on any public roadway in the city limits unless the animal is safely restrained in a carrier or similar device.

While city officials plan to use the first few weeks to educate the public on the new rules and seek voluntary compliance, it is important to note that any violation of the ordinance is a misdemeanor offense with a fine of up to $500.

Posted on 02-06-2009