Dangerous dog cases on the rise for Burnet
Even though recent dog attacks did not result in any life-threatening injuries, there was a report of one woman who was attacked and three incidents of dogs attacking other animals.
“It doesn’t happen very often, but we had four reports in the last four months, and it seemed things were getting out of hand,” said Animal Control Officer Kim Wilson.
Officials have said the cases involve breeds ranging from pitbull-terriers to small dogs.
The city’s animal control ordinance defines a “dangerous animal” as one that hurts people without provocation.
A dog is also deemed dangerous if it chases or confronts a person on the streets, sidewalks or any public or private property or if the dog has killed or seriously injured a domestic animal without provocation while off its owner’s property.
“Basically, the policy is if your dog gets out of your yard and attacks or threatens someone, you’ve got a problem,” Burnet City Manager Mike Steele said.
The city also requires an owner to file a permit with the city if the animal has the potential to cause any harm. The registrable dangerous dog permit fee is $50 per animal per year. The dog must also wear a dangerous dog tag, which costs $25 per year.
Owners wishing to file for a registrable dangerous dog permit must meet certain requirements.
The dog must be confined in an appropriate enclosure with a posted warning sign. It must be micro-chipped, spayed and/or neutered and the owner must show proof of having a minimum $100,000 insurance policy to cover potential damages.
“That registration could really save an owner a lot of money if something happens,” Wilson said.
Wilson says many pet owners don’t know they are required to register their animals with the city, but that registration process has many advantages.
“With the city’s support, one thing I’ve always tried to do is to work with the pet owners,” Wilson said.
The city’s pet registration fee is $5 per animal per year.
Wilson also encourages all pet owners to keep their animals up-to-date on rabies and other vaccinations.
byoung@thepicayune.com