Friday, January 30, 2015

Keeping My Dog Legal in Chicago

Below is a summary of legal duties you have as a dog owner in Chicago. This is not an exhaustive list, but touches on key components of being a legal and ethical dog owner:

1. Dogs over the age of 4 months must have a rabies vaccine. A second vaccine must be administered within one year of the first. Vaccines subsequent to that must be in compliance with the USDA. You are required to keep a certificate (from your veterinarian) and a tag showing proof of the inoculation. Exemptions exist if you have a determination from a veterinarian, in writing, stating a rabies vaccine would compromise the health of your dog.
Citation: 510 ILCS 5/8

2. Animals must be restrained. We have a pretty strict "leash law" in Chicago which requires that your animal be leashed AND under your control. Simply having your dog on a leash isn't enough, you have to make sure you are in control of your dog and don't allow them to jump on anyone. I often wonder if retractable leashes "flexi-leads" are a violation of this ordinance as it is easy to lose control of your dog with a loose line. The law also requires that if you leave your dog in a fenced yard that the fence be high enough that your dog can't reach or jump over it.
Citation: Chicago Municipal Code 7-12-030  Animals shall be restrained.

3. Dogs 4 months or over must obtain a city license.  License fees will be assessed, but the good news is that if you have a spayed or neutered animal your fee is just $5, while unsterilized animals are $50.
Citation: Office of the City Clerk 

4. You must pick up after your dog. The fines for not picking up your dog's excrement range from a minimum of $50 all the way to $500.
Citation: Chicago Municipal Code 7-12-420 Removal of excrement.

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list! As a dog owner you must remember that you have many duties and obligations. A good key is to remember that not everyone wants to interact with your dog, so keep them close, in your control, and up to date on vaccines.