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Allegheny County board to rewrite 'vicious animal' and 'dangerous dog' definitions
Summary
The Allegheny County Animal Control Board voted to begin drafting narrower definitions in Chapter 2-25 after members and staff said the current language is overly broad and can render adoptable animals unsalable. The board will research neighboring counties' codes and reconvene with police and risk management input.
The Allegheny County Animal Control Board opened new business by agreeing to begin revising Chapter 2-25 to clarify what counts as a "vicious animal" and a "dangerous dog," a move members said is fundamental to enforcement and adoption decisions. Chair (Speaker 5) said the current wording is so broad "that any animal could fit that description," and urged members to work in small sections so the board can bring a well-researched proposal to the commissioners.
The discussion centered on public-safety thresholds and the consequences of current wording for animals in the shelter. Members noted several counties use different approaches; Chair said she had pulled language from Garrett, Washington, Prince George's and Baltimore counties for comparison and provided two draft options for members to review. The board asked staff to collect examples, invite the Cumberland City police to advise on enforcement nuances, and request input from the county risk-management coordinator before submitting a formal recommendation to the commissioners.
