Effective April 2009, it will be unlawful to tether (chain) your pet unless you are present. In the event a pet is illegally tethered (chained), the pet owner will receive a warning. Failure to take corrective action will result in a civil penalty for cruelty of $100 and a $500 civil penalty for additional offenses.
Miami-Dade County, FL) -- In an effort to improve the safety of Miami-Dade residents, and the wellbeing of pets, Chapter V of the Miami-Dade County Code pertaining to animals has been amended and the County’s first anti-tethering law will go into affect April 2009 to give pet owners ample time to learn about the new regulations.
“Our goal is to protect our residents and pets†said Dr. Sara Pizano, Director of Miami-Dade Animal Services. “Studies show that tethered dogs are 2.8 times more likely to bite. The Anti-tethering ordinance will ensure pets are treated humanely and our children play safer,†added Dr. Pizano. Animal Services is working with volunteers and trainers to educate the community about anti-tethering and proving useful resources for a smooth transition.
Effective April 2009, it will be unlawful to tether (chain) your pet unless you are present. In the event a pet is illegally tethered (chained), the pet owner will receive a warning. Failure to take corrective action will result in a civil penalty for cruelty of $100 and a $500 civil penalty for additional offenses.
A complete copy of Chapter V can be obtained in the Animal Services website www.miamidade.gov/animals.
Miami-Dade Animal Services is responsible for enforcing Chapter V, as well as Florida Statutes 828, which deals primarily with animal cruelty issues. Unlike private shelters that have limitations on the number of pets they accept, Animal Services accepts all dogs and cats. Each year, the shelter impounds more than 34,000 pets. The goal at Animal Services is to reunite lost pets with their families or find life-long homes for as many animals as possible. Related links: www.miamidade.gov/animals or call 311.
Media Contact:
Xiomara Mordcovich
305 884-1102, ext 255
Miami-Dade County, FL) -- In an effort to improve the safety of Miami-Dade residents, and the wellbeing of pets, Chapter V of the Miami-Dade County Code pertaining to animals has been amended and the County’s first anti-tethering law will go into affect April 2009 to give pet owners ample time to learn about the new regulations.
“Our goal is to protect our residents and pets†said Dr. Sara Pizano, Director of Miami-Dade Animal Services. “Studies show that tethered dogs are 2.8 times more likely to bite. The Anti-tethering ordinance will ensure pets are treated humanely and our children play safer,†added Dr. Pizano. Animal Services is working with volunteers and trainers to educate the community about anti-tethering and proving useful resources for a smooth transition.
Effective April 2009, it will be unlawful to tether (chain) your pet unless you are present. In the event a pet is illegally tethered (chained), the pet owner will receive a warning. Failure to take corrective action will result in a civil penalty for cruelty of $100 and a $500 civil penalty for additional offenses.
A complete copy of Chapter V can be obtained in the Animal Services website www.miamidade.gov/animals.
Miami-Dade Animal Services is responsible for enforcing Chapter V, as well as Florida Statutes 828, which deals primarily with animal cruelty issues. Unlike private shelters that have limitations on the number of pets they accept, Animal Services accepts all dogs and cats. Each year, the shelter impounds more than 34,000 pets. The goal at Animal Services is to reunite lost pets with their families or find life-long homes for as many animals as possible. Related links: www.miamidade.gov/animals or call 311.
Media Contact:
Xiomara Mordcovich
305 884-1102, ext 255