Loose/Stray Dogs In Parkglen
Are you sometimes afraid to go for a walk because you may encounter a loose dog?
When stray pets roam our neighborhoods, it's not only dangerous for the pets but for the people who live there, too. Aside from the potential danger they pose, loose or stray dogs are susceptible to injuries or death from encounters with traffic. Neighbors who are exposed to encounters with loose or stray dogs, are more prone to dog bites or attacks. Unfortunately, a Parkglen resident recently lost her small dog to a viscous attack from two Pitbull’s negligently roaming loose in the neighborhood.
Loose Dogs
Residents, you are prohibited by state law and city ordinances from allowing your dog from roaming loose. The Houston Code of Oridances, Article II, Sec. 6-3 and 6-4, provide that an owner or other person having possession of an animal must ensure that their animal does not run at large (“loose”) or be subject to punishment. (read more here: Code of Ordinance). A dog can be declared as a nuisance under several circumstances, including if the animal interferes with someone’s right to enjoyment of life. The interference can be due to incessant barking or howling, damaging property other than the owner’s, and repeated defecation on another’s property. Houston has a dangerous dog ordinance which covers complaints by residents, hearings about dangerous dogs, and requirements for dangerous dog owners. A dangerous dog owner must carry at least $100,000.00 in liability insurance.
Strays
Many residents have expressed their concern for such problem but it is ultimately up to the city of Houston to ensure stray dogs are off the streets. Parkglen CIA urges its residents to call Animal Control at (713) 229-7300 about the dogs in our neighborhood. If it's not safe for you, it's not safe for kids playing in the neighborhood either.
Every animal bite must be reported to authorities, according to the Texas State Health and Safety Code. Please call 3-1-1 to report an animal bite. Information to share includes location of the animal, if known, and address where the bite occurred.