Sadie enjoys the treat of a leashed walk with her pal at the Anthem Community Park.
The Anthem Community Council said it will crack down on patrons of Anthem parks who violate county leash laws.
“Reports from deputy officers as well as complaints received from Anthem Community Park patrons clearly document the presence of an off-leash issue that requires enforcement…,” according ACC staff.
Enforcement could include a warning or a citation from Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office deputies or animal control personnel, according to ACC staff. ACC staff has requested MCSO and park personnel monitor at peak times and give extra attention to this issue.
Maricopa County law prohibits any dog to run at large outside owner’s property unless in a designated dog park. Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet. A dog at large could be impounded.
Maximum penalty is up to four months imprisonment or up to $750 in fines, or both. A dog owner might be held liable for any damage or injury inflicted by his dog.
Exception to the at-large law: A dog is not in violation if actively engaged in obedience training and accompanied by and under the control of his owner or trainer. The trainer must be in possession of a leash of no more than 6 feet in length. The dog must be enrolled in or have graduated from a dog obedience training school.