LEASH LAWS
Animals that are not properly restrained pose a threat to all our residents. While you may know your pet is friendly, an animal running at someone who is walking by is very scary for that person. Many children are afraid of animals and become frightened, which could result in the child getting hurt trying to avoid the animal.
Harris County Animal Control advises, “All dogs and cats must be kept under restraint while in the unincorporated areas of Harris County, Texas. The custodian of a dog or cat is not authorized to have, harbor or keep any unlicensed dog or cat, nor to allow any dog or cat to become a stray.”
Restraint is defined as “the control of a dog or cat under the following circumstances:
1. When it is controlled by a line or leash not more than six (6) feet in length, if the line or leash is held by a human being, who is capable of controlling or governing the dog or cat in question
2. When it is within a fully enclosed vehicle
3. When it is on the premise of the custodian and the animal does not have access to sidewalk or street.”
While it may be nice to have your animal out in the yard while you work or play, it is against the law, unless the animal is properly restrained.
Let’s all help keep our community a safe and comfortable place for all our residents by being responsible pet owners. This will not only protect anyone who may be walking or bicycling in the area, but also the pet owner who could be held legally responsible or possibly sued for failing to properly restrain their pet.
To make a complaint or report an animal that is not properly restrained please contact:
Harris County Precinct #5, Contract #87: 281-463-6666
Harris County Animal Control: 281-999-3191
Harris County Health Department, Rabies/Animal Control Section
2223 West Loop South, Houston, Texas 77027-3588
http://www.countypets.com/