County puts Ocean Pines on a leash

By Bob Lassahn

During their April 19 meeting the Worcester County Commissioners took up the question of legislation to implement a county "leash law." Although the measure covers county property (where posted) the only specific <!--?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" ?-->Worcester County community named in the legislation is Ocean Pines. The measure was introduced for consideration by Commissioner Tom Cetola.

The law requires that a person must leash a dog (either physically or by electronic means) while the animal is off the property of the owner. A leash is defined in the legislation as any lead, cord or remote controlled electronic collar, or other restraint to prevent the dog from moving more than 15 feet from the person holding the leash or an object to which it is affixed.

The same law provides that the person in control of a dog on a leash is required to remove all excrement deposited by the animal anywhere other than property owned by them. Specifically exempted from the legislation are hunting dogs and herding dogs while engaged in, or while being trained for such activities. The leash requirement does not apply to cats.

During the public hearing testimony was received from five citizens including four residents of Ocean Pines. Ernie Ardis from Section 10 urged the commissioners to adopt the legislation, stating it is needed as a safety measure. He described how he was attacked by a dog while walking his own pet in Ocean Pines, resulting in injury to himself and the near death of his own small dog.

Norm Katz also testified in favor of the legislation due to the danger of rabies and noted the rights of animals should never take precedence over the rights of people. Earl Leitess stated no strong  opinion either for or against the bill, but urged the commissioners to include electronic training apparatus as a qualifying "leash."  The devices are included as meeting requirements of the law.

Joe Reynolds testified that he believed the leash requirement would do little to solve the problem of what have become known as "driveway dogs." These dogs are unleashed and on their owner's property, so they are not covered under the new requirement.  Reynolds said that as someone walking or biking on the street approaches the property the dog charges onto the street. Reynolds explained such an incident occurred while he was walking with his granddaughters and while there was no physical harm resulting from the incident his two granddaughters were very frightened.

Sheriff Charles Martin testified that the new law is fair to pet owners as well as the public in general and will give officers the tools they need to deal with issues involving dogs. A County Animal Control officer also testified in favor of the bill and when questioned regarding enforcement of animals running at large advised commissioners that a citation can be issued even when an officer does not witness the incident if a complaining witness will testify in court. He further informed them that the county has received no complaints from Ocean Pines residents, likely because they have their own animal control enforcement officer.

The issue of animals running at large is already included in the county Animal Control law, applies countywide and includes cats. It provides for impoundment and establishes that a redemption fee will be assessed.

The new leash law section applies only to the area within the boundaries of Ocean Pines and on county properties that will be designated by appropriate signs as a leash area. According to Commission President Sonny Bloxom these will likely include many parks and recreation areas, but some locations may be set aside to allow off leash exercise.

No fines have been established for violations of the new leash law that takes effect 45 days following passage, on June 3, 2005.

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