Soap Lake discusses restricting dog breeds
Two wolf-type dogs residing in Soap Lake prompted a council discussion on possible rule changes on the types of breeds allowed within the city limits.
SOAP LAKE - Concern over wolf dogs seen roaming free within Soap Lake prompted discussion of animal rules revisions.
Soap Lake resident Diane Crummett recently told city council members she's seen two dogs resembling wolves running at large in her neighborhood on more than one occasion.
"They've gotten out three times that I know of and that's three times too many," she said. "I don't know what your rule is but some cities have outlawed those (types of dogs), saying they can't be in the city. The dogs have actually stalked my neighbor and I want to know what happens to the owners."
Current city code prohibits animals running at large and lists fines to be imposed on pet owners with escaped animals. The fines range from $25 for a first offense up to $160 for third and subsequent offenses.
Darryl Piercy, who acts as the city planner and code enforcement officer, said it's not entirely clear if the issue falls under the criminal or civil element of city code. He said an ordinance adopted by the city about a year ago may have overwritten the city's ability to impose civil infractions in deference to an administrative review and criminal enforcement process.
"We might want to check how that ordinance was adopted because I believe the ordinance included all current civil infractions still on the books," he said. "I think we need to clarify that we have the authority to be able to write those tickets. It's not only under the dogs situation but also other code enforcement issues."
Piercy then addressed Crummett's concern over the types of dogs allowed by the city, saying while the issue of limiting breeds can be divisive, its a discussion worth having.
"It can be split down the middle between property owners and animal owners on rather or not you want to have those types of restrictions," he said. "I think it would be reasonable to have a good, honest discussion on what the community feels is needed in terms of establishing some restrictions on the types of dogs. Bear in mind that there is some case law that comes into play on whether or not you can restrict a particular breed and how that's accomplished."
City Attorney Katherine Kenison agreed the issue can be complicated.
"There are other communities that I work with that have defined dogs to exclude hybrids and, as indicated, you have to be somewhat careful," she said, suggesting the city also look at limiting exotic cats that can be equally as dangerous if they get loose.
Mayor Raymond Gravelle requested the item be put on the agenda for more discussion at the Feb. 15 Soap Lake City Council meeting.
"There is dialogue going and we're looking at the best way to approach this," Gravelle said.
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