The Odessa city hall is working on a new project aimed at addressing the issue of walking large dogs without muzzles and leashes. The proposal is expected to be presented to the city council during 2025. This was discussed during a city council session.
Details of the situation
The struggle against large dog owners who enjoy walking their pets without muzzles has been ongoing since 2020. However, no effective measures have been implemented to influence these residents. Council members are still advocating for new dog walking rules, while the document is still under development.
"Unfortunately, owners of large breeds, particularly fighting dogs, continue to walk their pets without muzzles or leashes. There have been instances where large dogs attack people, children, tear clothing and cause injuries. We want our services to be able to impose fines and control dog owners," stated a city council member.
The environmental department noted that they currently cannot approve rules that would allow fines for walking large dogs without muzzles, as current legislation does not permit this.