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Pennsylvania Dog Leashing Requirements & Failure to Contain a Dog

Dog owners often believe that having their dog run around their yard is perfectly fine. It is, if the yard is fenced or the dog is somehow secured by a collar or chain. However, many dog owners simply allow their dogs to run around an unfenced yard, believing they can intervene if a situation arises. The reality is that if a dog is set to attack another animal or person, there is little the owner can do to stop the attack from occurring.  Most situations of a dog attack or dog bite are 100% preventable. It is important that dog owners understand and follow leash laws. This will aid in prevention of dog bites and attacks.

Pennsylvania Dog Leash Law

Under Pennsylvania state law, dogs must be confined to their owners’ properties. The Dog Law, or what is known as the leash law, 3 P.S. Section 459-305, provides as follows:

It shall be unlawful for the owner or keeper of any dog to fail to keep at all times such dog either:

1. confined within the premises of the owner,
2. firmly secured by a means of collar and chain or other device so that it cannot stray beyond the premises on which it is secured, or
3. under the reasonable control of some person, or when engaged in lawful hunting, expedition or field training.

Pennsylvania Local Township Leash Laws – Norristown

In addition to the Pennsylvania state law, many local municipalities and townships have their own leash requirements.
Norristown requires that all dogs being walked are kept on a leash of no longer than six feet in length. Philadelphia has a similar ordinance.  Dogs in Norristown must also licensed with Montgomery County. Any problems with dogs in Norristown can be reported to the non-emergency number at 610-272-1111.

Related Pennsylvania Dog Bite & Attack Legal Articles:

Pennsylvania Dog Bite & Attack Lawyers

For more information, contact a Pennsylvania dog bite and animal attack lawyer. Our lawyers are available for a free, no obligation legal consultation.

The personal injury and dog bite lawyers at Schwartz & Blackman handle cases in the Pennsylvania and New Jersey area:

  • PA: Berks County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, Philadelphia County, Allentown, Lehigh Valley, Norristown, Philadelphia
  • NJ: Atlantic County, Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Camden, Cherry Hill, New Jersey shore cities

*This website does not provide legal advice. Every case is unique and it is important to get a qualified, expert legal opinion prior to making any decisions about your case. See the full disclaimer at the bottom of this page.

Published: September 26, 2012

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