Title
Ordinance To Amend and Reenact Chapter 5 - Animals of the City Code of Hampton, Virginia By Amending Section 5-2 Pertaining to the Definition of "At Large"
Purpose
PURPOSE/BACKGROUND:
At its March 28, 2017 meeting, after much research and discussion, the Hampton Animal Control Advisory Committee voted to approve an amendment to the definition of the term "at large" found in Chapter 5- Animals of the Hampton City Code. The proposed amendment to the "at large" definition would specify that while the dog is off the property of its owner/custodian, the owner/custodian must have the canine under his/her immediate control "by leash, rope, or chain attached to a commercial pet collar or harness or contained within a pet carrier, crate, or enclosed pet stroller."
Discussion:
The current definition of "at large" provides that a canine must be "under its owner or custodian's immediate control." The statute does not specify the means by which that control is exercised. Accordingly, dog owners/custodians can currently use voice control, shock collars, or other training techniques to maintain "immediate control" of their canine. The Animal Control Advisory Committee believes that a more limited definition of "at large" will improve public safety and promote safe, unencumbered use of public property for all Hampton citizens. This amendment will also establish a consistent City-wide policy regarding pet control while on City of Hampton property (i.e. the proposed amendment is consistent with current Parks, Recreation and Leisure Services requirement that dogs be leashed at all times while in City parks). Finally, this proposed amendment will protect the animals themselves from exposure to harm and/or diseases while in public places. The City of Hampton currently has two officially designated Bark Parks where dog owners can exercise their dogs off-leash without impeding other citizens' use and enjoyment of public spaces. Additionally, it bears reminding that this prop...
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