Owning a dog is one of life’s greatest pleasures. No matter how bad your day is, it’s nice to know that when you get home you’ll be greeted with joy and love.
While owning a dog is wonderful, there are also many responsibilities connected to owning a dog. One of the things you must be aware of is California’s leash laws. Failing to obey the leash laws can result in both you and your best friend running afoul of the law.
The first thing to understand about leash laws is that they can vary from one city to another. This means that anytime you take your dog for a walk in a new area, you should spend a few minutes researching the local leash laws. The good news is that while there are some differences, the general concept is the same. Your dog isn’t allowed to run loose, they must be on a leash and under control.
It’s important to understand that California’s leash laws don’t exist simply to make your dog miserable. They serve an important function. California’s leash laws are in place in an effort to protect you, your dog, and the entire neighborhood from dog attacks and other dog-related accidents. By keeping your dog on a leash, you not only prevent your dog from potentially knocking over a passing child, but you also reduce the risk of your beloved pet from getting attacked by another dog, running in front of a car, and getting loose.
If you feel that being on a leash makes it impossible for your dog to get the exercise it needs, you’ll have to find a fenced in yard for them to play in or take them to a park. You may even be able to find a local farmer who is willing to rent you some land by the hour where your dog can play. K9 daycare centers are another great option if you want a place where your dog can run and play without having to worry about a leash.
The punishment for failing to adhere to local leash laws varies from one city to another. In most cities, not having your dog on a leash will result in a fine. The police could also choose to have animal control pick up your dog, forcing you to pay a fine before you’ll get them back. If someone is hurt by your unleashed dog, you could find yourself dealing with a civil lawsuit.
The next time you take your dog for a walk, make sure that they are properly secured to a leash that is in good repair and firmly held in your hand.