The Madison Department of Public Health, in response to a number of complaints, will be increasing patrols of Animal Control Officers.  They will be watching for pet owners in violation of city ordinances and will issue citations to dog owners they observe who do not have their pets on a leash. Specifically, patrols will be increased along the Southwest Bike Path, in the area of Glenway Golf Course and the Dudgeon/Monroe neighborhood and around Vilas Park where a flurry of complaints have been focused. 

Warmer weather increases activity on area bike trails including both humans and canines.  Dog owners who use the trails to walk their dogs should remember it is against city ordinance to allow a dog to roam free anywhere in the city except designated dog parks. 

“The Southwest Bike Path is a major commuter route for bikers coming into the city as well as a popular skating and walking path,” said Dr. Kathryn Vedder, Director of Public Health.  “Dogs off the leash are a tremendous safety hazard both to the bicyclists and others on the paths, due to their unpredictable behavior in bicycle, pedestrian, and skating traffic.”

 Animal Control Officers will increase patrols during heavy use times in the mornings and evenings and make frequent checks in high traffic areas. 

 For a first time violation, a citation for not having a dog on a leash is $102.  All subsequent violations are $164.  If the dog causes an injury there is an additional fine of $133. 

“We want to make sure all dog owners are aware that their pets can cause serious injuries to others when not properly controlled,” Dr. Vedder said.  “If everyone follows the rules, there’s no reason both bikes and dogs can’t co-exist on these trails.” 

For more information contact Pam Tauscher, 294-5312 or cell 235-2859 or Doug Voegeli, 294-5338.