What is responsible pet ownership?
It is the citizen’s responsibility to properly care for his/her pet(s). As a pet owner you must follow state codes and city ordinances. This will help ensure that the citizen’s pet(s) live long and healthy lives. It is also the citizen’s responsibility as a pet owner to provide adequate food (in a clean container or food dish), adequate water (in a clean container), adequate shelter adequate for the species and size of the animal that protects from the adverse elements of nature), and veterinary care when needed. (State Code Section 3.1- 796.68)
Dog Licensing
City Code Section 6-40 requires licensing for all dogs four months of age or older. Citizens can purchase a license at the City Treasurer’s Office. They must show a current rabies certificate. The Treasurer’s Office is located at 215 Church Avenue, SW. Payment can also be mailed along with a rabies certificate to: Roanoke City Treasurer, P.O. Box 1451, Roanoke, VA 24007. For more information contact the Treasurer’s Office at (540) 853-2561.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It is transmitted by a bite or exposure to the saliva of a rabid animal, and can kill almost any mammal, including humans. Only mammals can contract the virus. Rabies can be prevented by vaccinating your cat, dog or ferret against the disease at the age of four months. City Code Section 6-62 requires rabies vaccinations for all dogs and cats four months of age of older. Never attempt to harbor wild animals and never try to pet or pick up wild animals, especially if they are demonstrating odd behavior (such as nocturnal animals roaming during the day). State Code Section 18.2-313.1 requires that all animal bites and/or scratches be reported to animal control and the local health department.
If a citizen is bitten by his/her own pet, confine it immediately and call the veterinarian to check the animal’s vaccination records. If the bite is from someone else’s pet, contact authorities and tell them as many details known. Information such as the owner’s name, description of the animal and where the pet was seen may help officers locate the animal quickly.
Animals Running at Large
Citizens must be in control of their dog at all times. Any time a citizen’s dog is off his/her property it must be leashed (City Code Section 6.23). Cats repeatedly off the property are considered to be a public nuisance (City Code Section 6-11). Pet owners must also properly remove and dispose of feces left by pets on public property and private property not belonging to the animal’s owner. (City Code Section 6-13)
Animal Cruelty
It has been established through various studies that animal cruelty can be linked to family violence. Some animals living in a violent home are often victims themselves. Many are used as an outlet for frustration and anger. They can be beaten, tortured, maimed, neglected and abandoned; sometimes left to suffer a painful death. Animal cruelty is punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. (State Code Section 3.1-796.122)
Impounded Animals
Impounded animals that have no identification are held for five days at the Regional Center for Animal Control and Protection. Those animals that have identification are held for ten days. Owners who are claiming impounded animals must show proof of ownership, and a driver’s license or picture identification. Acceptable proof of ownership is a current rabies certificate, current city license or A.K.C. registration. Owners must also pay pick-up and boarding fees when claiming their animals. If you believe your animal has been impounded you can call the Regional Center for Animal Control and Protection at (540) 344-4922.
Free Roaming Cats
Millions of cats across the country die needlessly every year because they are allowed to roam. Many cat owners believe the myth that cats need to roam to live fulfilling lives. According to the Humane Society of the United States the average lifespan of a free roaming cat is about three years, compared to the 12 to 18 year lifespan of an indoor cat. Cats allowed to roam are more likely to be hit by vehicles, are more susceptible to diseases which can be transmitted to humans, are more likely to be poisoned by chemically treated lawns, are more vulnerable to being attacked by other animals, and can easily fall victim to people who want to do them harm. Free roaming cats can also pick up fleas and ticks, and introduce those pests into your home. To protect your cat, yourself and your family you should do the following:
• Keep your cat indoors if possible.
• Maintain current vaccinations.
• Spay or neuter your cat.
• Don’t feed cats that don’t belong to you. They are likely to return to your home looking for food.