Kalispell passes strict dangerous dog law

Owners of aggressive dogs in Kalispell had better beware.

The Kalispell City Council last week passed the first reading of a revised ordinance dealing with dangerous dogs.

The ordinance would allow the city to impound a dangerous dog that causes bodily injury to a person or bites or kills a domestic animal without provocation while off the dog owner’s property.

If the municipal court declares the dog dangerous, it would require the dog’s owner to post a warning sign, erect a proper enclosure, muzzle the dog when it is off the owner’s property, and notify law enforcement when the dog is sold or dies.

The court also would require the dog’s owner to post a $50,000 surety bond payable to any person injured by the dog; pay an annual fee of $250 to license the dog; and have its registration number tattooed on the dog’s right inner thigh.

According to the ordinance, the city would seize a dangerous dog if the owner fails to pay the annual fee or maintain a proper enclosure. The city may put the dog to death if the owner is convicted of a violation for which the dog originally was seized.

No one under 18 would be allowed to own or care for a dangerous dog.

Additionally, if any dog is running at large and presents a danger to the public, a city police officer or warden could kill the dog, whether or not it has been previously declared dangerous.

Violations of the provisions would be a criminal misdemeanor.

City Attorney Charlie Harball said that provisions dealing with fowl at large, cats and dog excrement will be addressed in the future.

On Nov. 15, council approved the first reading of the revised ordinance by a vote of 8-0, with Tim Kluesner absent. Second reading is scheduled for Dec. 6.

Reporter Caleb Soptelean may be reached at 758-4483 or by e-mail at csoptelean@dailyinterlake.com.