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August 2, 2010

Proposed Dalton law would bar tethering dogs

Charles Oliver

Dalton residents will no longer be able to leave their dogs chained in their yards, but they will also no longer be required to keep their cats on a leash under proposed changes to the city’s animal control ordinance.

The City Council had a first reading of the changes on Monday. The council can vote on the changes after the second reading at its next meeting on Aug. 16.

City attorney Jim Bisson said that under the city’s service delivery agreement with Whitfield County, the county handles animal control in the city. In return, the city is required to maintain an animal control law “substantially similar” to the county’s.

The proposed amendment to the city’s ordinance will update it to match a law the county adopted in June that forbids owners from chaining dogs. That law also sets standards for runners and for shelter. Those convicted of violating the law face fines that vary by the offense.

The city amendment also removes a requirement that cats be kept on a leash when they are off an owners property. Whitfield County’s ordinance does not have such a requirement.

City Council member Denise Wood said she did not even realize the city required cats to be leashed.

“I have cats. They are indoor cats. But I know lots of people who have outdoor cats. They have the inner tiger in them. They want to explore,” she said. “I guess cat lovers might want to come to the next meeting.”

But she said dog owners may have some concerns about the law.

“The people need to let us know,” she said.

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