Spencerís dog lovers need have no fear: Town aldermen arenít out to collar the number of canine companions residents are allowed to keep on their premises.
As the town board clarified this week through an amended ordinance, the concern isnít how many dogs you have, but how many you have living outside, whether penned, chained, caged or otherwise restrained. The law limits such ěoutsideî dogs to three per yard. It places no limits on dogs living inside a home ó other than the ownersí ability to provide food, water, care and chew toys.
Itís unfortunate that such a law is necessary in the first place. But the reality is that neglected and abused pets are a problem for every municipality, and dogs constantly chained or penned outdoors are especially vulnerable. Outdoor dogs are sometimes left unattended for long periods of time. Their barking can be a major disruption for neighbors. In too many cases, the animals themselves are subjected to poor care or outright abuse, left without adequate sustenance and protection from the elements. Thatís not only cruel but potentially life-threatening in summerís swelter or during especially cold weather.
Ordinances alone canít solve the problem. Laws wonít turn irresponsible people into conscientious pet owners who exercise due regard for their neighborsí ears and as well as their dogsí welfare. But laws can help highlight the problem of neglectful pet owners and provide a legal mechanism for protecting against nuisance situations and serious animal abuse.