Attention: Vicious Dog Owners

As you may be aware, there are laws in effect concerning the maintenance of Vicious Dogs in the state of Ohio. In an effort to alert and educate you, the owner, keeper or harborer, the following analysis of this law is being provided for you so that you may comply with this current state law rather than be subject to court action for violation of these sections.

1. A dog license must be secured for all dogs.
2. While the dog is on the premises, it must be:
   confined in a locked pen which has a top, or a locked fenced yard, or other locked enclosure which has a top.
3. While the dog is off the premises, it must be kept on a chain-link leash or tether no longer than six feet AND do at least one of the following:
   keep the dog in a locked pen or enclosure which has a top, or a locked fenced yard.
   Or
   have the leash controlled by a person who is of suitable age and discretion or securely affix the leash to the ground or a stationary object so the dog is retrained AND station such a person close enough to the dog to prevent it from causing injury.
   Or
   muzzle the dog.
4. Liability Insurance must be obtained with an Insurer authorized to write liability in this state for not less than $100,000.00 because of damage or bodily injury to or death of a person caused by the dog.
5. In the event of sale or transfer of the dog, the proper forms necessary for such a transfer of ownership must be filed. These forms will be provided free of charge at this office. The transfer fee is $1.00.

Vicious Dogs make up 1% of the dog population in the United States. However, they are responsible for 67% of the deaths caused by dogs. It is these types of statistics which prompted the State of Ohio to create legislation directed to this problem. The criminal penalties under this bill range from a misdemeanor in the fourth degree to a felony in the fourth degree.

Washington County Dog Warden
205 Putnam Street
Marietta, Ohio 45750
Phone: (740) 373-6623 Ext.204
Fax: (740) 373-2200

©2006 Washington County
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED