Dog Owners Target Of Potential Haddonfield Ordinance

HADDONFIELD, NJ — Haddonfield Commissioners are taking steps to hold residents responsible for the actions of their pets.

These actions excessive barking, biting people or other animals, causing “unsanitary, dangerous or unreasonable” conditions, damaging property, chasing cars, trespasses on other properties and running at large on public streets, sidewalks and properties, according to the proposed ordinance posted on the borough’s website.

• Complete an approved obedience program;
• Complete an approved responsible dog ownership program;
• Keep their dog inside their home during hours specified by the court;
• Install a fenced dog pen;
• Have the dog sterilized;
• Muzzle the dog when not on their property; and
• Submit to any other penalties deemed appropriate.

The ordinance isn’t proposed for single occurrences, but dogs that repeatedly engage in these actions become a nuisance. Owners who allow their dog to become a nuisance may have their dog removed from the home.
The proposed ordinance was passed on first reading on Tuesday night, Nov. 21. The public hearing and final vote is set for Dec. 19, according to the Haddonfield Sun.

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