Violations
of animal ordinances can result in impoundment
of your pet and a fine to you, as owner, plus
mandatory court appearances in certain circumstances.
These
laws protect pets from injury and possible mistreatment,
as well as protect citizens from the many problems
caused by straying animals: such as bites, traffic
accidents, soiled lawns, and scattered trash.
The
rules are simple:
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Keep your dog and cat confined to
your property or under direct control if it
is off your property. Acceptable means of confinement
include: in your house or inside a fence, pen
or other enclosure. "Control" generally
means on a leash.
*
Pets are not permitted to roam at
large off your property; neither are they permitted
on the public beaches. Do not permit pets to
commit other public nuisances such as chasing
or harassing people or vehicles; damaging or
destroying property of others; or making excessive,
continuous noise disturbing to others.
*
You must provide proper shelter,
protection from the weather and clean conditions.
Wholesome food and water, adequate exercise,
and veterinary care must be supplied. Shelter
must be of suitable size and weatherproof, with
adequate bedding such as blankets, shavings
or the equivalent.
*
Pet waste must be removed and properly
disposed of promptly, both on public and private
property. Be a good neighbor: "scoop 'de
poop".
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Animals in open vehicles (trucks,
etc.) must be confined in a cage or securely
tethered by a device that will not permit the
animal to fall or jump from your vehicle.
*
Incidents of animal abuse, torture,
or other cruel treatment will be prosecuted
as misdemeanors or felonies, pursuant to Florida
Statutes. Persons found guilty are subject to
imprisonment and/or fines.
*
Merely turning your animal loose
if you move is illegal.
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If you or a member of your family
is bitten by an animal, or if your animal bites
a person or another animal, you should immediately
notify the Environmental Health Department (EHD)
at 595-6700. The EHD will advise you concerning
quarantine procedures prescribed by state regulations.
If you wish to file a complaint, you may contact
the Escambia County Animal Regulation and Control
office at 595-3075.
*
Report "found" animals
to the Escambia County Animal
Regulation and Control office at 200 West Fairfield
Drive (595-3075). The owner may be trying to
locate a missing pet. Place a "found"
ad in a local newspaper. Most papers will run
the ad free of charge. |
