Dog license, litter and leash laws

An important part of being a responsible dog owner involves compliance with licensing, litter and leash laws. These vary from town to town, so you will need to call your local animal shelter if you are not sure about the regulations in your area. By honoring these laws, you will help give dogs (and dog owners) a good name.

License

In most parts of the country, licenses are mandatory for dogs; a fee is usually charged. Dogs should always wear identification and license tags on their collars. Consider the license an important form of ID. Should your dog become lost, the license will ensure that your dog is not mistaken for a stray and can be traced back to you. Some areas also require rabies vaccination as part of the licensing process, or may offer a fee reduction if your dog has been spayed or neutered.

Litter

Cleaning up after your pet is just plain good manners. You have chosen to accept the responsibility of caring for a companion canine, so it is not fair to expect someone else to clean up or dodge the mess. Repeat and consistent offenders in your town can also contribute to an unfavorable impression of dogs and their owners. If your dog defecates on a neighbor's lawn, the sidewalk or any other public place, clean it up. In some areas, you will need to bring your dog to the curb to do his business; check with the local animal shelter if you do not know what the litter laws are.

Leash

In many areas, owners are required to keep their dogs on a leash and under control, while on the street and in other public places. In areas of heavy traffic, your dog could bolt into the street and be hit by a car. A loose canine is also more likely to get into fights with other dogs, and could frighten people, particularly children, regardless of how friendly he may be.

In most towns, especially in urban environments, your dog may be allowed off-leash in specially designated spots in parks and local dog runs. All dogs, especially city canines, will love to run and play off-leash in a safe, fenced-in area. Just be sure your pet will come to you at all times when you call. A disobedient and aggressive dog is not ready to play with others.

If you have a dangerous dog – one who has bitten or shows aggression to other animals and people – you may be required to keep him muzzled in public places. Again, check with your police department, humane society or animal affairs authority as to local regulations.