Glendora Enforces Strict Dog Laws

Last Monday’s heightened local awareness on dog safety, particularly concerning pit bulls.

Pit bulls  -- the unofficial reference to the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier -- have long been deemed aggressive animals. But some claim the label is an exaggerated stereotype. 

According to Pit Bull Rescue Central, an organization dedicated to the rescue of pit bulls, there are no accurate statistical data on the number of dog bites of any particular breed since many dog bites go unreported.

Still, several cities have placed specific laws on pit bulls. In unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County, pit bull owners are required to sterilize their dogs or face heavy fines of up to $500. 

In Glendora, there are no laws that reference pit bills specifically.

“The laws apply to any breed of dog, whether they are pit bulls, Chihuahuas or poodles,” said Animal Control Officer Jolean Miller.

Glendora Municipal Code requires all pets to be confined on the owner’s property.

According to the code, animal control can impound all unlicensed dogs, dogs running at large, unvaccinated and unwanted dogs. The city also enforces strict leash laws, in which all dogs must be secured by a leash exceeding no more than six feet long.

All dogs in Glendora must also be licensed, and have proof of a rabies vaccination. License fees are $60 per year. Owners may also receive a discount on their dog’s license fees if the dog is spayed or neutered. License fees for spayed and neutered pets are $20 a year.

Violation of the municipal code is punishable by a citation.

The two pit bulls in Monday’s attack were, said Lt. Tim Staab.

For more information, call Animal Control at (626) 914-8275 or e-mail Animal-Control@glendorapd.org .