(a) No owner or person in charge of a dangerous dog shall fail to do one of the following:
(1) Keep the dog securely inside of the owner's home or transport vehicle.
(2) Keep the dog in a locked enclosure at least five feet by ten feet, which has a secure top and sides. It must have either a concrete base with the fencing securely attached or anchored to the concrete perimeter to a depth of six inches or the sides must be embedded into the ground no less than two feet. All fencing must conform to the City of Rocky River building codes. If the animal is not in a contained area, then the animal must be under control at all times with owner or owner's agent who is capable of controlling the dog by use of collar(s), leash and muzzle.
(3) While a dangerous dog is off the premises of the owner, keeper, or harborer, it must be fitted with a proper collar that will prevent the dog from slipping out of it or breaking through it, and have a substantial chain link leash or tether attached to the collar that conforms to the dog's weight, size, and strength. The leash should be not more than six feet in length and should be controlled by a person who is of suitable age, size, and discretion to control the dog. Alternatively, the leash may be securely attached, tied or affixed to the ground or a stationary fixture so that the dog is adequately restrained. In this case, a person who is of suitable size, strength and discretion must be stationed in close enough proximity to the dog so as to prevent it from causing injury to any person or domestic animal. Additionally, dangerous dogs off the premises of the owner must be muzzled in such a manner that the muzzle does not interfere with the dog's breathing.
(b) Whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree, a misdemeanor of the third degree for the second offense, and a misdemeanor of the second degree for the third offense and each subsequent offense.
(Ord. 50-18. Passed 11-26-18.)