Posted On: August 11, 2009 by Kenneth L. Christensen

Salt Lake City Dog Bite Laws

KSL News reports that the Humane Society is proposing a new leash regulation for dog owners in Salt Lake County. The new law would mandate the length of time a dog could be chained up outside. Utah currently has no law against tethering pet dogs, and the Humane Society hopes to change that. The ordinance would make it illegal for owners to tie up their dogs during harsh weather conditions and for more than eight hours per day. Exceptions would be made if the dog is attached to a running line or is being used in a farming operation. The director of the Humane Society of Utah says that dogs living in isolation from being chained for extended periods of time or more prone to violent behavior. Councilman Randy Horiuchi and Council Chairman Joe Hatch have backed the proposed ordinance in a press conference, saying that tethering dogs for long periods is inhumane. If passed, the ordinance would affect unincorporated areas of Salt Lake County, and would impose a fine of up to $1,000 for repeat offenders.

Pent-up dogs can easily become antisocial and aggressive, lashing out by attacking and biting humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs every year in the United States – that is about 2% of the entire population. Every day 1,000 people nationwide are treated in the emergency room from injuries resulting from a dog bite. Ordinances like this one would help keep dogs from exerting violent behavior. Yet even the most well behaved dog can act out aggressively, biting and injuring a human victim. These injuries can be extremely debilitating, especially when inflicted on a child. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries resulting from a dog bite, consider contacting the Salt Lake City dog bite attorneys at the Christensen Law Firm. We are experts in Utah dog bite laws, and will diligently work to ensure you receive a proper settlement to pay for your medical expenses and other damages you received in your accident. For a free consultation, call us at 801.506.0800.

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