Animal Control

Animal Control
Posted: 18 Mar 2009 08:26 AM PDT
As an animal and/or pet owner within the City of Lewisville, it is YOUR responsibility to educate yourself on City Codes that affect you. The City has adopted a new animal ordinance which took effect February 16th, 2009. Briefly:

· It will be illegal to leave a dog outdoors and unattended by use of a restraint that unreasonably limits the dog’s movement. Dogs restrained and left unattended outdoors must be kept in a yard that is enclosed by a fence or enclosed structure that prevents unauthorized access by another person or stray dogs and other animals.

· No live animal can be sold or given away on public property or any property to which the public has access that is not certified to sell animals. The only exceptions are city animal service employees and non-profit animal welfare or adoption agencies.

· Animals can no longer be given away as a prize, a promotional tool or an inducement to participate in a fund-raising event. This includes raffles and similar giveaways.

· It will be illegal to carry or transport an animal in the open bed of any moving pickup, flatbed or similar vehicle operating on any public roadway in the city limits unless the animal is safely restrained in a carrier or similar device.

While city officials plan to use the first few weeks to educate the public on the new rules and seek voluntary compliance, it is important to note that any violation of the ordinance is a misdemeanor offense with a fine of up to $500.

If you own an animal, make sure it is properly restrained at all times. If you cannot keep your animal restrained or come within compliance with City Code, please consider having it adopted.

If you observe a stray or loose animal, you may call the City of Lewisville Animal Control at 972-219-3478. They respond to calls M-F from 8 AM to 8 PM and on Saturdays from 9 AM to 5 PM. After hour calls are given to their on-call officer. After hours you may call 972-219-3640. If it is an emergency, please call 911.