Owning a pet can be an incredibly rewarding experience, providing companionship and love for years to come. But when it comes to certain breeds of dog, it’s important to double check the regulations in your local area before making any decisions.
In St. Louis County, Missouri, the law states that certain breeds of dog, such as pit bulls and Rottweilers, must be muzzled and leashed, even when on private property. But are there any breeds of dog that are outright banned in St. Louis County?
What Breeds Are Banned in St. Louis County?
The St. Louis County Council passed a law in 2015 that bans the ownership of certain breeds of dog, including pit bulls, Rottweilers, and wolf-dog hybrids. This law has been in effect since 2015, and any person found to be in violation of the law can face a fine of up to $500.
The law also states that any dog suspected to be a banned breed must be tested by an approved veterinarian. If the dog is found to be a banned breed, then it must be surrendered to the Animal Care and Control Department, or the owner may face a fine of up to $500.
Are There Exceptions to the Ban?
Yes, there are certain exceptions to the ban on certain breeds of dogs in St. Louis County. Dogs that have been registered with the county before the ban was enacted are exempt from the ban, as are dogs that are registered as service animals.
Additionally, the law states that any dog that is bred and registered with the American Kennel Club is exempt from the ban. If a dog is found to be a banned breed, but the owner can prove that it was bred and registered with the AKC, then the dog is exempt from the ban.
What Are the Requirements for Owning a Banned Breed of Dog?
If you choose to own a banned breed of dog in St. Louis County, there are certain requirements that you must follow. All banned breeds must be muzzled and leashed when in public, and must be muzzled and leashed even when on private property.
In addition, all banned breeds must be spayed or neutered, and must be licensed with the county. All dogs must also have up-to-date vaccinations, and must have a microchip implanted by a licensed veterinarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are any dog breeds banned in St. Louis County?
Yes, certain breeds of dog, including pit bulls, Rottweilers, and wolf-dog hybrids are banned in St. Louis County.
Are there any exceptions to the ban?
Yes, there are certain exceptions to the ban. Dogs that have been registered with the county before the ban was enacted, as well as dogs that are registered as service animals and dogs that are bred and registered with the American Kennel Club are exempt from the ban.
What are the requirements for owning a banned breed of dog?
If you choose to own a banned breed of dog in St. Louis County, there are certain requirements that you must follow. All banned breeds must be muzzled and leashed when in public, and must be muzzled and leashed even when on private property. In addition, all banned breeds must be spayed or neutered, and must be licensed with the county. All dogs must also have up-to-date vaccinations, and must have a microchip implanted by a licensed veterinarian.
What happens if I am found to be in violation of the law?
If you are found to be in violation of the law, you can face a fine of up to $500. If a dog is found to be a banned breed, but the owner can prove that it was bred and registered with the AKC, then the dog is exempt from the ban.
Are there any other regulations I should be aware of?
Yes, there are certain regulations that all pet owners should be aware of. All dogs must be licensed with the county, and all dogs must have up-to-date vaccinations. Additionally, all dogs must be spayed or neutered, and all banned breeds must be muzzled and leashed when in public, even when on private property.
Are there any resources available for pet owners in St. Louis County?
Yes, there are a number of resources available for pet owners in St. Louis County. The St. Louis County Animal Care and Control Department provides a range of services to pet owners, including licensing, microchipping, and spaying and neutering services. Additionally, the department provides educational programs on responsible pet ownership and other animal-related topics.
Does the ban apply to all breeds of dog?
No, the ban does not apply to all breeds of dog. The ban applies only to pit bulls, Rottweilers, and wolf-dog hybrids. All other breeds of dog are not subject to the ban.
What is the penalty for violating the ban?
If you are found to be in violation of the ban, you can face a fine of up to $500. Additionally, any dog suspected to be a banned breed must be tested by an approved veterinarian, and if found to be a banned breed, must be surrendered to the Animal Care and Control Department.