Elgin Oks Modified Animal Control Ordinance

The City of Elgin passed a modified new animal control ordinance last week that did not declare pit bulls dangerous dogs, as it had originally included.

The ordinance allows an animal control officer to declare an animal dangerous or vicious if the animal is involved in an attack.

The ordinance declared "dangerous dogs" and "vicious dogs" must be muzzled and kept on a six-foot non-retractable leash when walked. Owners would be required to obtain a $100 three-year license for the animals and would need to secure a $100,000 liability policy for dangerous dogs and a $500,000 liability policy for vicious dogs.

The dog must be walked by someone 18 years or older and the must be microchipped. The dog must be confined to the inside of a house or may be outside only if there is an enclosed six-foot locked fence. The dog must also be spayed or neutered.

The council had originally proposed to declare all pit bulls dangerous dogs, automatically subjecting them to the new restrictions and fees. The ordinance had been proposed, in part, as a response after reports of unleashed pit bulls in neighborhoods and after a small dog was attacked and killed last year.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an animal attack, we may be able to help. Contact us for a free consultation.