Spring is here and soon most of us, our children and our pets will be spending more time outdoors. In the spirit of the season, there are 2 Georgia laws that your homeowner’s association and the BCC pet registry would like to remind you about.
The first is a new one – banning tethering. It was passed unanimously on March 4, 2009 and becomes effective on September 4, 2009. The resolution makes it unlawful to restrain or anchor a dog by means of a tether (rope, chain, etc.) but allows for short-term tethering while the dog is attended. The intent is to prevent tethering dogs outside all day without any supervision as this can be physically harmful to the animal. It can also result in the animal breaking loose and roaming.
This leads to the second law regarding keeping dogs under control at all times – better known as the leash law. As well behaved as your dog may be, you are required to keep your dog on lead when walking the neighborhood. This is for your own protection as well as others. Not everyone’s dog is “dog-friendly” and even those that generally are, can encounter another dog that, for whatever reason, they dislike instantly. No one wants their own or someone else’s pet to be hurt when it can be so easily prevented.
Two other pet safety reminders:
- If you have an electric fence or wireless fence, check the batteries monthly – perhaps on the same day that you administer their heartworm and/or flea and tick prevention medications.
- Coyotes are still being seen in our neighborhood. They don’t have a discriminating palate and are VERY fast – don’t let your cat or small dog become their next meal! Be sure they are inside a few hours before dusk and not let out again until well after sunrise.
Please remember that we do have a pet registry in Brookfield. If you are new to the neighborhood and have a pet, take a moment to complete the registry form that’s available in the Brookfield Butterfly and on the website or send an email with the information to patriciaopperman@comcast.net. If you no longer have a pet that is registered, let Pat know so she can keep the list current.
Have a safe and enjoyable warm weather season!