URGENT UPDATE: Redlands, California, has just implemented a groundbreaking ordinance requiring dog owners of “vicious” breeds to carry a minimum of $100,000 in liability insurance. This significant change, approved by the City Council on December 16, is aimed at enhancing accountability for pet owners following alarming incidents of animal attacks.
Under the newly revised code, dogs can now be classified as “potentially dangerous” or “vicious” based on their behavior, including unprovoked attacks that necessitate defensive actions from individuals to prevent injury. This includes threats to both people and other domestic animals on the owner’s property. The ordinance expands the definition of a “severe injury” to include serious physical damage like major fractures and disfiguring lacerations.
Mayor Mario Saucedo expressed that the updates to the ordinance were overdue, stating, “I think some of the challenges of trying to go just on subjective evaluations was kind of cumbersome.” He emphasized that the new regulations would facilitate more objective investigations and improve administrative processes for law enforcement.
According to Tabitha Crocker, director of the city’s Facilities and Community Services Department, the ordinance aligns with best practices and legal standards for clarity and enforceability. The changes also empower law enforcement to impound dogs deemed an immediate threat to public safety and mandate that owners secure liability insurance, undergo mandatory licensing, and ensure their pets are vaccinated and microchipped.
In a move to further protect the community, owners of dogs classified as dangerous will now be required to complete obedience training courses. They must also use leashes and muzzles for their pets when outside their homes and post visible warnings on their property indicating the presence of potentially dangerous animals.
Violators of this ordinance risk fines ranging from $100 to $500. Importantly, dog owners retain the right to appeal their pet’s classification by submitting a request to the city clerk’s office within 10 calendar days of the order.
As this ordinance comes into effect, the Redlands community is urged to stay informed about these new regulations, which aim to enhance safety and accountability among pet owners. The implications of this law are significant, as it shapes the responsibilities of dog owners and addresses growing concerns over public safety related to animal attacks.
Residents and dog owners are encouraged to discuss the ordinance and share their thoughts on social media, fostering a community dialogue about responsible pet ownership and safety. As this story develops, stay tuned for updates on how these changes will impact the Redlands community and beyond.
