Photo obtained via the city of Avondale Estates website.

The city of Avondale Estates says public works employees have been chased by dogs that weren’t properly secured by their owners. The city’s code of ordinances requires dogs to be kept on a leash.

“City of Avondale Estates Public Works associates working outdoors have recently been chased and confronted by off-leash dogs, nearly resulting in injuries,” an email from the city to residents says.

The city provided a reference to its current city code about restraining pets …

According to the code, “(a) It shall be the duty of the owner of any dog or anyone having possession of any dog to keep the dog under restraint and control at all times while the dog is off the real property limits of the owner, possessor, or custodian.” Dogs should be ‘restrained by a secure collar and leash (not to exceed six (6) feet in length), both collar and leash of sufficient strength to prevent escape; and held by a person competent to maintain control.'”

The city also provided additional citations for dog owners …

Dog Care Essentials from the Humane Society of the United States: “Even a dog with a valid license, rabies tag and ID tag should not be allowed to roam outside of your home or fenced yard. It is best for you, your community and your dog to keep (the dog) on a leash and under your control at all times.”

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals offers similar insight on leash laws: “Pet owners who allow their pets to roam unattended are putting the animals’ welfare in jeopardy and creating a nuisance to neighbors, other domestic pets and wildlife.”