Citizens Wonder if “The Price is Right” for Proposed Spay and Neuter Ordinance

Nick Avgerinos — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 09:56:00 GMT

It’s not every day Bob Barker comes to Chicago. His long-running stint as host of “The Price is Right” was punctuated by his signature sign-off: “Help control the pet population. Have your pets spayed and neutered.” So when he learned of Chicago’s proposed city ordinance that would require cats and dogs over 6 months old to be spayed and neutered, it was essentially a moment of “Bob Barker, come on down!”

And that’s what he did. Mr. Barker attended a three-hour hearing at City Hall, where he was a strong proponent of the ordinance. Despite his speech, the City Council’s License Committee took no action, postponing any decision until a later date. There are impassioned supporters on both sides of the debate. The ordinance is backed by PAWS Chicago, as well as the Humane Society of the United States. Notably, however, it is opposed by the Chicago and Illinois State Veterinary Associations, which maintain that the decision to spay or neuter is best left up to the pet’s owner and veterinarian on a case-by-case basis.

The ordinance is sponsored by Ald. Ed Burke (14th), chairman of the Finance Committee, and Ald. Ginger Rugai (19th). They support the ordinance due to its potential for keeping Chicago residents safe from animal attacks, citing evidence that sterilized animals are less likely to be vicious. Animal attacks, especially dog bites, are a widespread problem and can be very dangerous. In April, a woman was attacked by five pit bulls while on her way to pick up her children at school on the southwest side; that incident apparently prompted this legislation.

Previously, the Chicago City Council considered an ordinance mandating that dogs be microchipped in an effort to track down the offending dog’s owner. That proposed ordinance was prompted when two female joggers were attacked, one fatally, in Dan Ryan Woods in 2003. That legislation failed, however; widely criticized as being too invasive, policing private conduct. Some citizens have similar feelings about this proposed ordinance, including serious doubts about enforceability.

If passed, the ordinance would require dog and cat owners to have their pets sterilized by the time they’re 6 months old. Those who failed to comply could be fined $100, while those who intend to breed their pets could obtain a permit to do so, provided that they submit to a criminal background check and pay a fee. The city already requires that owners license their dogs, which costs $5 or $50, depending on if your dog is sterilized. Unfortunately, there’s widespread non-compliance with that ordinance. So, the question remains whether the proposed legislation would be any more effective.

In theory, it’s a great idea. As Bob Barker explained: “It will help the animals themselves. It will prevent tremendous animal suffering. But beyond that, it will save taxpayers in Chicago thousands, millions of dollars probably. In California, it is now costing $250 million a year to capture the animals, house the animals and kill the animals.” The question is whether it’s feasible in practice. And, for some, whether the legislation goes too far with infringing on personal freedom. No matter what the City Council ultimately decides, though, it’s important that we take responsibility for our own pets, making every effort to prevent possible personal injury and property liability issues. Because the price is always right if it means promoting safety.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Nick Avgerinos

Teeth Bared: Why Cute and Cuddly Can Be Doggone Dangerous

Nick Avgerinos — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 10:36:00 GMT

How much is that doggy in the window? And how about the food and toys? Oh, and the vet bills? And how much for the fence outside? By the time all of these expenses stack up, that doggy is pretty expensive. Perhaps that’s why many dog owners don’t opt for the fence, at least not right away. What owners may not realize, however, is that this leaves them vulnerable to liability, especially in cases where their canine companion is deemed “dangerous.” Such is the case in Illinois.

Wisconsin personal injury attorney David Lowe recently wrote about a 17-year-old Wisconsin boy who suffered a fractured skull after running into a tree. Why the rush? The boy was fleeing a Rottweiler that broke its chain. The dog didn’t bite the boy or touch him in any way, but it did break its chain. Thus, its owner was cited for failure to keep the Rottweiler behind a fence.

With warm weather upon us, more people will be leaving their furry friends al fresco. Likewise, more children will be outside soaking up the sun. Although a child’s desire to ‘pet the cute little doggy’ may seem innocent, it is important to recognize the potential for disaster. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, approximately 800,000 people receive medical treatment for dog bites each year. In fact, on average, 12 people die from dog bites each year. Personal injury attorney Kenneth Phillips has a very comprehensive website that addresses prevention of and compensation for dog bite injuries.

Although pet owners have the primary responsibility to keep their pets in line, the AVMA provides things that you can do to minimize your chances of getting hurt:

How can my family and I avoid being bitten?

Be cautious around strange dogs and treat your own pet with respect. Because children are the most frequent victims of dog bites, parents and caregivers should:

NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog.
Be on the look out for potentially dangerous situations.
Start teaching young children – including toddlers – to be careful around pets.

Children must be taught NOT to approach strange dogs. Teach children to ask permission from a dog's owner before petting the dog.

Other tips that may prevent or stop a dog attack

Don't run past a dog: Dogs naturally love to chase and catch things. Don't give them a reason to be come excited or aggressive.

Never disturb a dog that's caring for puppies, sleeping or eating.

If a dog approaches to sniff you, stay still.
In most cases, the dog will go away when it determines you are not a threat.

If you are threatened by a dog, remain calm.
Don't scream. If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly. Avoid eye contact. Try to stay still until the dog leaves, or back away slowly until the dog is out of sight. Don't turn and run.

If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your head and neck. Protect your face.

By following these tips, you can help keep your loved ones, both human and canine, as safe as possible. And that will give us all less to growl about.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Nick Avgerinos

Rockford & Moline Personal Injury Lawyers - Dog Bites

Citizens Wonder if “The Price is Right” for Proposed Spay and Neuter Ordinance

Teeth Bared: Why Cute and Cuddly Can Be Doggone Dangerous