Ohio Valley Dog Owners, Inc.

Pet ownership is not a numbers game

Ohio Valley Dog Owners urges communities to enforce animal control laws that target actual nuisances, not numbers, because

There is no link between a specific number of dogs and nuisance; one dog that barks or runs loose can cause more trouble than a dozen that are quiet and stay at home.
Singling out owners who have a specific number of dogs merely shifts the responsibility for causing a nuisance from the dog owner (where it belongs) to all owners of multiple dogs and does not solve community dog problems.
Limits punish breeders, obedience trainers and other competitors, and all other responsible dog owners - the citizens that communities need to keep, not drive away. Rather than being targeted, they should be asked for advice in handling dog problems.
Limits are difficult to enforce and have been declared unconstitutional in some areas.
Limits punish responsible owners whose dogs - regardless of numbers - are reliable community citizens.
Limits can lead to more dog deaths if residents are prohibited from providing a home for an extra shelter dog or a stray.
Limits and other laws that are only enforced on complaint create disrespect for the law and provide ammunition for neighborhood feuds.

Vigorously enforce all state animal control laws and local nuisance laws, protect us and our neighbors from canine pests, and force only the guilty parties to pay the price.
Host education sessions for responsible dog ownership that encourage obedience training, Canine Good Citizen certification, and good pet manners. Ohio Valley Dog Owners Inc. and area dog clubs can provide the work for these sessions.
Protect the rights of all citizens with nuisance ordinances such as anti-barking and pooper scooper regulations.
Teach children about responsible dog ownership and care. The American Kennel Club's free dog care program for elementary schools includes a video tape, teacher's guide, and worksheets that can be supplemented with demonstrations of obedience training, grooming, and talks on veterinary care by local training clubs or veterinarians.