May 24, 2022
Contact: Justine Lentz
Animal Services Superintendent
Community Resources
479-444-3456
jlentz@fayetteville-ar.gov
Summer reminders for pet safety, owner responsibilities
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Fayetteville Animal Services and the department of Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs are reminding Fayetteville residents and guests that the City “leash law” (Ord. 5828) applies to City parks and its trail system.
Aside from the IAMS Dog Park and Lake Wilson Park – the City’s two designated off-leash areas – all other City parks require dogs to be on a leash at all times.
Leashes prevent dogs from chasing other animals or people, and from getting lost. They provide a sense of safety for pets, and leashes make it more difficult for pets to get loose and run off if scared by a loud or strange noise. The parks and trails are enjoyed by all residents and visitors, not just dog owners.
“It’s also a good time to stock up on pet-waste bags,” said Justine Lentz, Animal Services superintendent. “Not only is it good manners to clean up after you pet, it helps protect our public safety – and required by City ordinance [5002].
“Pet waste can carry bacteria and parasites transmitted through soil and storm water. There are pet-waste stations available at most City parks.”
During the heat of summer, Animal Services reminds people of the dangers of leaving pets in vehicles. If the outdoor temperature exceeds 70 degrees, an Animal Services officer will be dispatched to check on the welfare of animal left in a vehicle. If the internal temperature of the vehicle measures more than 100 degrees, the officer will remove the pet from the vehicle and issue a citation to the driver. There is a zero-tolerance policy for violations of City Ord. 5782.
Remember to consider the effect of summer heat on pavement, too. If you like to walk your pets, check the pavement temperature by pressing the back of your hand to the surface for 10 seconds. If it becomes too hot for you, then it is too hot for your pet and may burn their pads.
Animal Services offers $20 microchipping whenever the shelter is open; no appointment is necessary. Microchipping your pet is a fail-safe way to ensure your pet can be identified – it can’t fall off or get lost like a collar or tag. According to City Ord. 5466, Fayetteville residents must microchip their cats or dogs and register the number with Animal Services.
To update your pet’s microchip information, please contact Animals Services at 479-444-3456. The office and Lib Horn Animal Shelter (1640 S. Armstrong Ave.) is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. To learn more, visit www.fayetteville-ar.gov/animals.
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