This week's headlines

On April 16, at 1:53 p.m. officers of the Delta Police Department responded to the 500 block of Hastings Street on a report of an aggressive dog. The dog, described as a brown and white pit bull type dog, was charging at people and barking very aggressively.

An individual in the neighborhood was bit by the dog. Animal control and police officers kept the dog contained until the owner arrived. The dog was taken into custody and transported to the animal shelter facility for quarantine. Justin T. Norton, 26, of Delta is being charged with running at large prohibited and vicious animal.

The Delta Police Department and the City of Delta Animal Control encourage animal owners to be aware of the City of Delta municipal ordinances pertaining to animals. Animal owners are responsible for keeping their animals confined to their property, vaccinated against rabies, and licensed with the City of Delta. When animal owners fail to maintain their responsibility they may be issued a summons to court for violations and be required to pay fines and fees. Owners of aggressive dogs have a greater responsibility — and courtesy — to keep their animals properly secured and confined upon their property to prevent a public safety risk.

Dog owners should have adequate fencing, kennels, or enclosures that are well constructed and checked regularly to ensure the dog is not able to escape the containment area. If an animal owner chooses to use a tie out system, such as a cable or chain, they need to make sure the system is sufficient to control the dog. The device should be checked frequently for cracks, damage, and excessive wear. The fasteners should be heavy duty and have a swivel connection at each end to prevent twisting and tangling of the device. The device should be replaced immediately if it becomes damaged, has excessive wear, or if the dog outgrows the device.

The public should also be aware of some basic rules to prevent dog bites and animal attacks: Never approach or reach for an aggressive dog; do not run from or turn your back on an aggressive dog; do not scream, throw things, or make direct eye contact with the dog. Keep the dog in your line of sight and slowly back out of the area. Seek protective cover such as a vehicle or house, or place a large object between you and the dog. If there is no protective cover, remain calm, slowly back up to a wall, fence, tree or other item to blend into and remain as still as possible until help arrives.

Contact animal control, law enforcement, or 911 immediately for assistance. Never attempt to catch or corner an aggressive dog or a dog you do not know. All dogs have the potential to be aggressive and / or bite.

The City of Delta animal control officer can be contacted at the Delta Police Department. 874-7676, or through the Dispatch Center, 874-2015. The animal control officer is also available to assist individuals with questions or concerns about animals.

• < Prev
• Next >