Reported By: Chris Papst
STEELTON, Pa. — Leaders in one Dauphin County community hope a new animal ordinance will help hold dog owners more accountable, while giving everyone else peace of mind.
Steelton borough council passed an ordinance Monday night that will strengthen the existing leash laws.
Council Vice-President Maria Romano Marcinko said Steelton has a problem, which moved them to make the ordinance change.
“I heard one time someone say animals are only as dangerous as their owners. And I think it’s very important that we recognize that,” Steelton said.
Over the past year, residents have been complaining about dogs running loose in the borough, but under the old code the owners could not be cited.
After what happened last August to 8-year-old Carlos Vazquez, who was attacked by a dog and bit in the face, the importance of the ordinance was only strengthened.
“It was important to pass this ordinance because we need to protect the safety of the citizens of the Borough of Steelton and the animals,” Marcinko said.
Borough leaders amended its animal ordinance, which it had been working on for nearly a year, to require dog owners leash their dogs when taking them for a walk. The leash cannot be longer than six feet.
“I think it gives the residents in the borough a little sense of security knowing the ordinance in a little stiffer than it had been,” said Steelton police Chief John King.
King said he is also a dog bite victim.
Ten years ago, while on the job, he was attacked. He believes this new ordinance will help since it also requires borough dogs to be licensed and be vaccinated for rabies.
The dog that bit Carlos was neither. Now, owners can be fined prior to an incident, not just after when it’s too late.
“It should, yes (keep people safe),” King said. “They’ll feel more safe realizing that dogs now are on a leash and don’t have to be as concerned about a dog randomly running up and attacking them or their child or their pet.”
Violation of the ordinance will come with $1,000 fine.
Post time: Jun-28-2017