Dangerous animal declarations

We will assess if an animal is a threat to public safety if it:

• Bites a person or another animal
• Is aggressive to a person or another animal

Based on how severe the incident was, we may make a dangerous animal declaration in one of three levels:

• Potentially-dangerous animal
• Dangerous animal
• Destruct order

Not all biting and aggression results in a dangerous animal declaration. In some cases, we'll issue a warning to the owner and keep it on file.

Owner responsibilities

If we declare your animal to be potentially-dangerous, you must follow these guidelines.

• Muzzle and leash it when it is outside your home.
• Keep it in a secure area when people other than family members are in your home.
• Keep it in an approved kennel when outside.
• Get your outdoor kennels or fences inspected and approved for use.
• Do not :
  • Take it to off-leash dog parks.
  • Allow it to roam in your yard, even if it is fenced.

Your animal must be:

• Spayed or neutered, and
• Microchipped

 Every year, you you must:

• Register your potentially dangerous animal with Animal Care & Control. 
• Get a dangerous animal pet license.

Additional requirements

If you own a dangerous animal, you must also:

• Have personal injury insurance coverage of at least $300,000.
• Display these state-mandated warning signs.
  • A dangerous dog tag on the animal.
  • Dangerous animal signs in the front and back of your home.

Destruct order