Jennifer and friend

The foothills are beautiful. No wonder so many choose to retire here to get away from the urban lifestyle and out into the country. So what’s the harm in letting Fido and Rover free to enjoy rural living as well?

The truth is, the consequences of letting dogs run at large can be deadly serious.

Dogs are predators. Man has utilized their instinctive behavior to develop different breeds for different jobs. Some breeds have a higher prey drive than others, but almost any dog in a pack setting is capable of joining in an attack. Dogs at large attack and kill livestock on a regular basis. Goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, poultry and even wildlife are common targets.

Not only do these animals suffer, but someone’s livelihood can be affected. Pets are at risk also. It is very sad to hear from someone traumatized by seeing their beloved cat or small dog killed by a wandering dog.

People are also at risk. Some dogs are aggressive in certain situations and will bite – ask any jogger or cyclist! Dogs can be territorial and do not understand the concept of property lines. They may consider it their job to protect the street in front of their house, or their neighbor’s yard, from passersby. Often, people are bitten while trying to defend their own leashed dog.

Apart from the more serious threat, loose dogs can be a nuisance. I have yet to meet a person who enjoyed having dogs scatter garbage or defecate on their lawn. The dog who makes the rounds to “visit all the neighbors” may not be a welcome guest.

A roaming dog risks harm or death. Animal Control responds to many calls for dogs hit by cars. Unfortunately, not all survive. Dogs are sometimes shot when venturing onto ranches or farms. It is perfectly legal to defend one’s livestock. Dogs at large also  risk encounters with possibly rabid wildlife. And predators such as mountain lions and coyotes can kill dogs.

Tuolumne County has a leash law: No dog shall be off its property (or property it has permission to be on) unless it is on a leash held by someone capable of restraining the dog. Calaveras County requires that dogs be “under the owner’s control” at all times, or, if not being directly supervised by the owner, “contained” on the owner’s property.

These laws exist not only to prevent people, animals and property from being harmed; but also to protect the dog itself. Ultimately, it is the owner’s responsibility to protect man’s best friend.

Jennifer Clarke is the manager of Tuolumne County Animal Control, 10040 Victoria Way, Jamestown (694-2730).