Should Children be Allowed to Walk the Dog?

City council members in Manassas are considering tightening the leash on dog walking by only allowing responsible persons to partake in the activity.

An ordinance, which would amend  the city’s current leash law,  has been drafted and presented to council members; however, no action has been taken and no time-frame has been established for consideration, according to City Clerk Andrea Madden.

The ordinance would make it unlawful for the owner of any dog to allow the animal off their property unless it is secured by a leash, which must be held by a responsible person capable of physically restraining the dog.  So does this mean little Anna won't be allowed to walk Petey?

 According to the Washington Post, Animal Control Officer Karen Hayo told city council members at a Monday meeting there has been instances where a small child was walking a dog they could not control.

The Post also reported a Manassas woman recently said she had to place herself on top of a car to protect herself from two lose pit bulls.

The ordinance also calls for dogs caught running loose three times in a two-year period to be impounded and sterilized at the owner’s expense.

How do you think the council should vote on the amended ordinance? Let us know in the comment section.