Must my dog be on a leash when outside with us in our yard? Or only when walking?

[Fielder]

Do I need to have my dog on a leash when we are out working on the yard or just when we leave our property? Someone told me today that he is supposed to be on a leash when i was out watering my plants today. I cannot find the proper ordinance to answer this.

[Rose Ann Vinci Igoe]

Do I need to have my dog on a leash when we are out working on the yard or just when we leave our property? Someone told me today that he is supposed to be on a leash when i was out watering my plants today. I cannot find the proper ordinance to answer this.

wow, interesting someone would say anything to you when you are on your property. I can't answer you with the ordinance, but, the only thing is I would probably do a leash even on your property due to other animals could attack your fur baby. Coyotes, Hawkes, eagles, gators, more preditors than you think. I remember a post about a woman, didn't leash her fur baby due to early walking of her dog, 5:00 am and no one was up. however, she got the neighbors newspaper and brought it to their front door, and her dog was grabbed by a coyote and gone in a flash. Not the coyote's fault what do they know, its feeding time. Just want to add, most of my neighbors, don't leash their dog, when outside with them as they walk or tinker on their property.

[Bogie Shooter]

Here is the ordinance...

Municode Library (https://library.municode.com/FL/sumter_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=COCO_CH4ANCO)

[JMintzer]

Well, the people who used to own our home supposedly had two larger dogs that would take off and chase bike riders, and in at least one instance, biting one of the neighbors... So, it's important to be able to control your pet...

[davem4616]

Here is the ordinance...

Municode Library (https://library.municode.com/FL/sumter_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=COCO_CH4ANCO)



there was a sign over the court house in the city that we once lived in "Obedience to Law is Liberty"

[Bjeanj]

Short answer is your dog doesn’t have to be on a leash while in your yard.

We have an invisible fence, which is effective in keeping our dog in our yard. Note that if your dog leaves your yard, you’re in violation. Also, as noted above, you want to be outside with it in case a wild animal tries to take off with it.

[Garywt]

The rules listed are for Sumter County and very involved to see/find a leash law. Sounds like as long as your dog will not leave your yard then a leash is not needed but if the dog tends to chase people or roam then a leash is needed.

[Neils]

Your property means your rules.
Off your property better have on leash.
You are always liable for your pets actions

[MSchad]

Here is the ordinance...

Municode Library (https://library.municode.com/FL/sumter_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=COCO_CH4ANCO)
Thank you for posting this. Found “Sec. 4-7. - Public nuisance animals” very enlightening. We have a neighbor that lets their dog just continuously bark on their lanai most morning when we are trying to have a peaceful breakfast on our lanai. They will occasionally scream “hush” but then just let it keep barking. Time to start documenting these occurrences.

[Calisport]

Just depends what type of dog you have and if it attacks other dogs or ignores them. I had a shiba inu that is not normally off leash, but I trained him to stay with me and he ignored other dogs and squirrels and birds. He knew the squirrels were too fast for him anyway. Some people are afraid of dogs too.

[tophcfa]

It’s your yard, you can do what you want as long as your dog is properly trained to stay on the property. And shocking your dog when it gets to your property line is NOT properly training it.

[Bjeanj]

It’s your yard, you can do what you want as long as your dog is properly trained to stay on the property. And shocking your dog when it gets to your property line is NOT properly training it.

It only happened once. :-|

[Topspinmo]

Thank you for posting this. Found “Sec. 4-7. - Public nuisance animals” very enlightening. We have a neighbor that lets their dog just continuously bark on their lanai most morning when we are trying to have a peaceful breakfast on our lanai. They will occasionally scream “hush” but then just let it keep barking. Time to start documenting these occurrences.

Most? Breakfast? I doubt that’s going get anything done?

[jbartle1]

One fleeting moment, passing dog barking, unaware car with animal, wild critter and your fur baby would be gone forever, not worth risk.

[jimdecastro]

Short answer is your dog doesn’t have to be on a leash while in your yard.

We have an invisible fence, which is effective in keeping our dog in our yard. Note that if your dog leaves your yard, you’re in violation. Also, as noted above, you want to be outside with it in case a wild animal tries to take off with it.

Can I get details on invisible fence? From where? What was the approximate cost? Thanks!!!!

[jbartle1]

Can I get details on invisible fence? From where? What was the approximate cost? Thanks!!!!

Invisible fence is great keeping your critter IN, but not great for keeping WILD critters OUT.

[JeanC]

We have two boxers. They are always on a leash! When I take them for a walk we encounter unleashed dogs that run from their own yard and come after my dog. It’s very scary. I have one dig who doesn’t react at all. My other dog has a lot of fear (rescue) because of this, his walks are minimal. But yea, one walk around my block with my dog, and I can encounter at least 3 off leash dogs that come after us.

Even to take a quick pee, we harness and leash both our dogs and walk them in our yard. It’s just not worth the chance to have anything go wrong.

[mkjelenbaas]

You may want to call the sales center for documentation rather than depend on info from this site?

[DaleDivine]

You may want to call the sales center for documentation rather than depend on info from this site?

They're not always as informed as a lot of the people on this site...
:ohdear::bigbow::bigbow:

[TOMCAT]

Do I need to have my dog on a leash when we are out working on the yard or just when we leave our property? Someone told me today that he is supposed to be on a leash when i was out watering my plants today. I cannot find the proper ordinance to answer this.

I have a thing about unleashed dogs even on their own property. I love dogs, but I have a dog who gets very excited when he sees another dog. He gets hard to control. I do not know if he would bite as he has not yet. I walk him on a leash. A couple of times, unleashed dogs had ran up to him and all hell broke loose. No dog was hurt, but gave me quite a scare. One time three dogs came up to him at once.

Also, I remember walking alone, and this German Shepard starting jumping on me. The owner said he was friendly but that can still give a person a heart attack. Some people are afraid of dogs.

[noslices1]

It depends on whether you want to be on Judge Judy’s TV show.

[Ken D.]

Thank you for posting this. Found “Sec. 4-7. - Public nuisance animals” very enlightening. We have a neighbor that lets their dog just continuously bark on their lanai most morning when we are trying to have a peaceful breakfast on our lanai. They will occasionally scream “hush” but then just let it keep barking. Time to start documenting these occurrences.
Offer to buy their dog a bark collar, they do work.

[Petersweeney]

Can I get details on invisible fence? From where? What was the approximate cost? Thanks!!!!
Sold by invisible man who live in that invisible house down the block….

[ThirdOfFive]

I have a thing about unleashed dogs even on their own property. I love dogs, but I have a dog who gets very excited when he sees another dog. He gets hard to control. I do not know if he would bite as he has not yet. I walk him on a leash. A couple of times, unleashed dogs had ran up to him and all hell broke loose. No dog was hurt, but gave me quite a scare. One time three dogs came up to him at once.

Also, I remember walking alone, and this German Shepard starting jumping on me. The owner said he was friendly but that can still give a person a heart attack. Some people are afraid of dogs.
We have a gentleman in our neighborhood who walks his dog unleashed. The dog is extremely well-behaved and is trained to stick close to her master, and probably tips the scales at maybe four pounds so the "danger" level is pretty low. But were I him I'd be worried about the traffic, especially the golf carts. Texting while piloting your cart is not unknown in this village.

[Dee Smith]

I was told for small dogs an invisible fence is a problem. Big dogs abd animals can get on and they can’t get away from them. Just a thought.

[Syd2008]

Sumter County Leash Law.

sumtercounty-fl.elaws.us/code/coor_ch4_sec4-4
Direct control shall mean immediate and continuous physical control of an animal at all times such as by means of a fence, leash, cord, or chain of sufficient strength to restrain the animal;

Typical for most counties nationwide.

[airstreamingypsy]

We have a gentleman in our neighborhood who walks his dog unleashed. The dog is extremely well-behaved and is trained to stick close to her master, and probably tips the scales at maybe four pounds so the "danger" level is pretty low. But were I him I'd be worried about the traffic, especially the golf carts. Texting while piloting your cart is not unknown in this village.

Can't wait read about a Coyote, or Bobcat or Owl or Eagle carrying his dog off for breakfast...... a leash is the only thing that can keep that from happening.

[DonH57]

Short answer is your dog doesn’t have to be on a leash while in your yard.

We have an invisible fence, which is effective in keeping our dog in our yard. Note that if your dog leaves your yard, you’re in violation. Also, as noted above, you want to be outside with it in case a wild animal tries to take off with it.

Best recognized containment system there is. We've always used one even though with is arthritis he can't chase anything anymore anyways. We are always outside with our dog when he is out as well.:coolsmiley:

[Susan Garbarino]

The rules listed are for Sumter County and very involved to see/find a leash law. Sounds like as long as your dog will not leave your yard then a leash is not needed but if the dog tends to chase people or roam then a leash is needed.

Direct control shall mean immediate and continuous physical control of an animal at all times such as by means of a fence, leash, cord, or chain of sufficient strength to restrain the animal; or in the case of specifically trained working, agricultural or hunting animals which immediately respond to such commands, while working; direct control shall also include aural or oral control, if the controlling person is at all times clearly and fully within the unobstructed sight and hearing of the animal.

[Dgodin]

If your home is within Lady Lake town limits you can let the dog off leash in your yard but you must have control of the dog. A leash is required outside of your property.

[spd2918]

Also, I remember walking alone, and this German Shepard starting jumping on me. The owner said he was friendly but that can still give a person a heart attack. Some people are afraid of dogs.

This is an important point and deserves repeating.

YOU know that YOUR dog is friendly. The person your dog is barreling towards does not. I've seen Pit Bulls happily wave their tails as they ran to (and torn into) other dogs.

It is also just good manners to train your dog not to jump on people. I've had friendly dogs put their dirty paws on my uniform pants and squad car door.

[Andrea3051]

Do I need to have my dog on a leash when we are out working on the yard or just when we leave our property? Someone told me today that he is supposed to be on a leash when i was out watering my plants today. I cannot find the proper ordinance to answer this.
glad you brought this up as I am having this issue in my neighborhood. I encounter stories all the time of dogs in yards unleashed and passerby dogs & owners getting attacked. There are leash laws but they do not apply to private property, so can you do this, yes, should you, NO! without a fence or leash, your dog is not under your control 100% thereby placing them and anyone close by at risk, is that being a good respectful neighbor? NO IT ISN'T. Some people are afraid of dogs, imagine if they just want to take a walk? I am shocked to see this happening here in "the Friendliest town" and when one person does it, other dog owners follow suit creating an unsafe and unfortunate situation for anyone walking their dogs thru the neighborhood.

case in point: My two neighbors have off leash dogs running around with them in front of their homes, I come out one morning and begin walking my dog down the street. two of the little ones see us and begin chasing after us as their owner "screams" to retrieve them, is this OK with everyone? my lovely quiet relaxing Sunday morning was shot to hell, I have since purchased Dog defense items to carry. I lived in a big city and never had to carry these items but I do here... something is wrong with this picture.....

[dewilson58]

Many people think an invisible underground wireless electric fence is the best way to keep their dog in their yard. However, they are simply not as effective as you might think. Statistics suggest that invisible wireless electric fences are only about 70% effective.

Why invisible fences, just don’t work. | Pet Playgrounds DIY Dog Fence Kits (https://petplaygrounds.com/2014/05/29/why-invisible-fences-just-dont-work/)

[Kjbatl]

The paragraph below is directly from the Deed restrictions for the area I live in, I think this language is in all deed restrictions so you are required to keep your dog on a leash in your yard. I have personally had an incident recently when walking down a street where two dogs came out of a yard across the street looking friendly. When they got close, they started growling and circling. I yelled at the owner who was on her phone, she softly called them back, they finally went to her. I like dogs, but you cannot predict how an animal will respond to a stranger. Keep your dog on a leash even in your yard, it is just a courteous thing to do with houses so close together. Even though your neighbors seem to not care when your dog runs to them, not everyone wants to pet your animal every time they walk outside.
From deed restrictions:
Birds, fish, dogs and cats shall be permitted, with a maximum of two (2) pets per Homesite. Each Owner shall be personally responsible for any damage caused to dedicated or reserved areas by any such pet and shall be responsible to immediately remove and dispose of any excrement of such pet and shall be responsible to keep
such pet on a leash. No other animals, livestock, or poultry of any kind shall be raised, bred, or kept on any Hornesite or on dedicated or reserved areas.

[vinnytalk]

Do I need to have my dog on a leash when we are out working on the yard or just when we leave our property? Someone told me today that he is supposed to be on a leash when i was out watering my plants today. I cannot find the proper ordinance to answer this.
Yes, check the laws, also will help you in a lawsuit if your dog snaps at soneone

[tophcfa]

Can I get details on invisible fence? From where? What was the approximate cost? Thanks!!!!

Go to lazypetownerswhodontwanttoproperlytraintheirdogs.c om.

[fdpaq0580]

It’s your yard, you can do what you want as long as your dog is properly trained to stay on the property. And shocking your dog when it gets to your property line is NOT properly training it.

Just for the record, the "invisible fence" is not perfect. I was the victim of a lab that, in the excitement of chasing birds, ran right through the shock area then couldn't get back in, so went roaming the neighborhood.
Also, person's afraid of or untrusting of dogs can see no evidence that the dog is under any constraint can feel threatened if the dog comes at them.

[dewilson58]

99.999% of the time, people don't think their dog will bit.

99.999% of the time, actors don't think the gun is loaded.

[fdpaq0580]

I have a thing about unleashed dogs even on their own property. I love dogs, but I have a dog who gets very excited when he sees another dog. He gets hard to control. I do not know if he would bite as he has not yet. I walk him on a leash. A couple of times, unleashed dogs had ran up to him and all hell broke loose. No dog was hurt, but gave me quite a scare. One time three dogs came up to him at once.

Also, I remember walking alone, and this German Shepard starting jumping on me. The owner said he was friendly but that can still give a person a heart attack. Some people are afraid of dogs.

Even friendly dogs can cause emotional distress or injury. Owners should never allow pets to approach folks they don't know, even to say"hello".

[JanetMM]

I notice that many folk think it is OK to allow your dog off leash while you are outside working in yard. If you have your dog out, why not have it on a long line? Gives it freedom of movement but allows you control. Even before moving here a long line was just as important as having a leash. Now, in a CYV, long line is used while I am working in front yard. I try to be a good neighbor.

[JMintzer]

99.999% of the time, people don't think their dog will bite.

I feel the same way about people...

[Driller703]

We have two boxers. They are always on a leash! When I take them for a walk we encounter unleashed dogs that run from their own yard and come after my dog. It’s very scary. I have one dig who doesn’t react at all. My other dog has a lot of fear (rescue) because of this, his walks are minimal. But yea, one walk around my block with my dog, and I can encounter at least 3 off leash dogs that come after us.

Even to take a quick pee, we harness and leash both our dogs and walk them in our yard. It’s just not worth the chance to have anything go wrong.

A little off subject, but does dog pee kill the type of grass used in TV? In Virginia, it caused brown spots on the lawn. Here it seems like a type of crab grass.
Thanks

[fdpaq0580]

A little off subject, but does dog pee kill the type of grass used in TV? In Virginia, it caused brown spots on the lawn. Here it seems like a type of crab grass.
Thanks

Some will say "no" while others say "yes". The "no" folks are typically dog owners who take their dogs walking to other homes to pee. The "yes" folks have yards with dog pee brown spots in their grass. My opinion, as a dog lover and former owner is "yes". Go by your own experience.
Now back to our regularly scheduled discussion.

[lsauls7537]

Can I get details on invisible fence? From where? What was the approximate cost? Thanks!!!!

Invisible Fence
ocala.invisiblefence.com
Phone 352 351 1055 Territory Manager Donnie Ray, his phone # is 352 804-3393.
Three of us all have the invisible fence. None of us have any issues.

Price depends on if you only want the front yard protected, or the back yard only or 2 loopes. We've had ours for over 6 years so I'm sure the pricing is way outdated. Not inexpensive, but lots of peace of mind. They spend as much time as it is required to train you....and your pet. They install, verify all is working well.

Linda

[worahm]

Keep in mind, invisible fence may prevent your dog from leaving your property however, it does not prevent a predator from attacking your dog. Invisible fence may put your dog at a disadvantage and prevent your dog from fleeing. I keep my dog on a leash whenever we are outside. IMHO, it is just not worth the risk.

[The Caretaker]

Anytime it is outside in yard or not.

[valuemkt]

Do I need to have my dog on a leash when we are out working on the yard or just when we leave our property? Someone told me today that he is supposed to be on a leash when i was out watering my plants today. I cannot find the proper ordinance to answer this.

If I was in a charitable mood when a passerby said something like that, I would kindly tell him to keep walking. But I'm not in a charitable mood when someone infringes on my rights.. So my comment would probably end with .. And the horse you rode in on ..

If it was a "friend" I'd thank him for the input, say you want to change the topic and have a beer.

[metoo21]

Many people think an invisible underground wireless electric fence is the best way to keep their dog in their yard. However, they are simply not as effective as you might think. Statistics suggest that invisible wireless electric fences are only about 70% effective.

Why invisible fences, just don’t work. | Pet Playgrounds DIY Dog Fence Kits (https://petplaygrounds.com/2014/05/29/why-invisible-fences-just-dont-work/)

When a dog runs through it, they can't get back in even if owner is calling it.

Anytime it is outside in yard or not.

^^^^^
What he said.

[DonnaNi4os]

Do I need to have my dog on a leash when we are out working on the yard or just when we leave our property? Someone told me today that he is supposed to be on a leash when i was out watering my plants today. I cannot find the proper ordinance to answer this.

As I understand it there is a leash law in The Villages. If your yard is contained with a fence or because you are in a villa no one would care. As for invisible fences, remember that they don’t prevent other animals from entering your property. For the safety of your own dog, no matter the size, they should be on a leash. Dogs can become enticed by other creatures running around here and I have personally saved my neighbor’s dog from becoming road kill on more than one occasion.

[Allen Dronsfield]

We have a very arrogant neighbor behind us. They have no yard we however have a very large wedge lot which they think they can share with us, no regards for private property. Anyhow my wife was out spreading some cracker and bread crumbs for the wild critters when arrogance struck, the neighbor lady had her dog and herself in our yard and informs my wife that she doesn't want her dog eating that stuff, HELLO! quick fix remove yourself and dog from our yard and problem solved. This is just the beginning, the neighbor lady is sitting on our patio while her dog roams freely using our yard as a public dog walk. I was polite the first time and asked her to leave, the second time I was a bit more forceful and demanded she leave. Oh her and the husband thought they were creative and let the dog roam in the yard while they stood on their little strip of property. Well this made it a challenge for them as they had to come into the yard to pick up the poop. I ordered them out of the yard when they got offensive, they have some kind of idea that this yard also belongs to them. Sheriff told me there is no leash law in Sumter County, but that still should not allow others to freely use others yards as their own. What should be my next line of defense??

[metoo21]

Sheriff wouldn't probably know about any ordinances and covenants in The Villages.

[asianthree]

We have a very arrogant neighbor behind us. They have no yard we however have a very large wedge lot which they think they can share with us, no regards for private property. Anyhow my wife was out spreading some cracker and bread crumbs for the wild critters when arrogance struck, the neighbor lady had her dog and herself in our yard and informs my wife that she doesn't want her dog eating that stuff, HELLO! quick fix remove yourself and dog from our yard and problem solved. This is just the beginning, the neighbor lady is sitting on our patio while her dog roams freely using our yard as a public dog walk. I was polite the first time and asked her to leave, the second time I was a bit more forceful and demanded she leave. Oh her and the husband thought they were creative and let the dog roam in the yard while they stood on their little strip of property. Well this made it a challenge for them as they had to come into the yard to pick up the poop. I ordered them out of the yard when they got offensive, they have some kind of idea that this yard also belongs to them. Sheriff told me there is no leash law in Sumter County, but that still should not allow others to freely use others yards as their own. What should be my next line of defense??

Don’t agree with their behavior on using you yard as their personal dog potty. However, why are you inviting rats, and other rodents into your yard with bread and crackers.

[fdpaq0580]

Don’t agree with their behavior on using you yard as their personal dog potty. However, why are you inviting rats, and other rodents into your yard with bread and crackers.

Neighbors are trespassing and depositing raw sewage on posters property and apparently feel they can invite themselves to trespass to use posters patio as well. Just what liberties might they take if not stopped.

Putting bread and crackers on posters own yard may not be advisable any more than putting up a bird feeder, but they are in their own yard, so, none of our business

[JSR22]

Neighbors are trespassing and depositing raw sewage on posters property and apparently feel they can invite themselves to trespass to use posters patio as well. Just what liberties might they take if not stopped.

Putting bread and crackers on posters own yard may not be advisable any more than putting up a bird feeder, but they are in their own yard, so, none of our business

It is a neighbors business. Several people on my street had rats chewing through their lanai screen. Someone had put up a bird feeder. Requests were made to take down the bird feeder and they took it down. No more rats.

[Bogie Shooter]

Neighbors are trespassing and depositing raw sewage on posters property and apparently feel they can invite themselves to trespass to use posters patio as well. Just what liberties might they take if not stopped.

Putting bread and crackers on posters own yard may not be advisable any more than putting up a bird feeder, but they are in their own yard, so, none of our business

I think it is everybody’s business if someone is feeding any wild animals.

[fdpaq0580]

It is a neighbors business. Several people on my street had rats chewing through their lanai screen. Someone had put up a bird feeder. Requests were made to take down the bird feeder and they took it down. No more rats.

I stand corrected! I did say it was not advisable to put out bread or crackers. I was focusing on "arrogant neighbors" comment that she didn't want her dog eating it. No mention of the possibility of attracting rats, etc.

In post quoted above, "requests were made" and it was removed. Regarding "arrogant neighbors", requests were, apparently, not enough to keep them form trespassing.

Certainly, no one should feed wild animals. Our food is unhealthy for our wild friends.

Thanks for bringing this point into the conversation.☺️

[MrFlorida]

I carry dog spray, and have a good lawyer.

[MollyJo]

We have two boxers. They are always on a leash! When I take them for a walk we encounter unleashed dogs that run from their own yard and come after my dog. It’s very scary. I have one dig who doesn’t react at all. My other dog has a lot of fear (rescue) because of this, his walks are minimal. But yea, one walk around my block with my dog, and I can encounter at least 3 off leash dogs that come after us.

Even to take a quick pee, we harness and leash both our dogs and walk them in our yard. It’s just not worth the chance to have anything go wrong.
Thank you for always leashing your dogs. Whether large or small, any dog running up to people or someone walking their dog could cause the dog walker to be pulled down onto pavement. The owner of the unleashed dog is responsible for any injuries caused to others walking with or without a leashed pet. If more people thought about the liability, they may think twice before leaving their dog off leash.

[DaleDivine]

Just for the record, the "invisible fence" is not perfect. I was the victim of a lab that, in the excitement of chasing birds, ran right through the shock area then couldn't get back in, so went roaming the neighborhood.
Also, person's afraid of or untrusting of dogs can see no evidence that the dog is under any constraint can feel threatened if the dog comes at them.

Yep, I have seen this happen as the dog chased a rabbit out of the yard. It made a loud yelp as it was going through the invisible fence then couldn't get back in their yard.

:ohdear::ohdear::ohdear:

[valuemkt]

[QUOTE=metoo21;2030011]When a dog runs through it, they can't get back in even if owner is calling it.


Incorrect. When I had an invisible fence more than 25 years ago, smart dogs could sneak through the line or jump over it and be on their merry way.. And yes, they would get "zapped" if they tried to re-enter.

Newer, more expensive invisible fences broadcast much further. So Rover can't just jump the fence anymore .. He is clearly incented to get back to the safety of his yard.

[Travelhunter123]

Short answer is your dog doesn’t have to be on a leash while in your yard.

We have an invisible fence, which is effective in keeping our dog in our yard. Note that if your dog leaves your yard, you’re in violation. Also, as noted above, you want to be outside with it in case a wild animal tries to take off with it.

The dog has to be on a leash at all times, an invisible fence is an exception

[Travelhunter123]

The rules listed are for Sumter County and very involved to see/find a leash law. Sounds like as long as your dog will not leave your yard then a leash is not needed but if the dog tends to chase people or roam then a leash is needed.

No, the dog must be on a leash and under your control

[Travelhunter123]

Sumter County Leash Law.

sumtercounty-fl.elaws.us/code/coor_ch4_sec4-4
Direct control shall mean immediate and continuous physical control of an animal at all times such as by means of a fence, leash, cord, or chain of sufficient strength to restrain the animal;

Typical for most counties nationwide.

Note, the inclusion of fence
You can allow your dog to roam on your “Fenced” property, but must be on a leash if not fenced

[Travelhunter123]

If your home is within Lady Lake town limits you can let the dog off leash in your yard but you must have control of the dog. A leash is required outside of your property.

No, only if fenced

[Travelhunter123]

This is an important point and deserves repeating.

YOU know that YOUR dog is friendly. The person your dog is barreling towards does not. I've seen Pit Bulls happily wave their tails as they ran to (and torn into) other dogs.

It is also just good manners to train your dog not to jump on people. I've had friendly dogs put their dirty paws on my uniform pants and squad car door.

Good reply, also some people are very allergic to dogs

[Travelhunter123]

If I was in a charitable mood when a passerby said something like that, I would kindly tell him to keep walking. But I'm not in a charitable mood when someone infringes on my rights.. So my comment would probably end with .. And the horse you rode in on ..

If it was a "friend" I'd thank him for the input, say you want to change the topic and have a beer.

Your rights do not allow you to infringe on the “domestic harmony” of others or your neighborhood.

[Travelhunter123]

We have a very arrogant neighbor behind us. They have no yard we however have a very large wedge lot which they think they can share with us, no regards for private property. Anyhow my wife was out spreading some cracker and bread crumbs for the wild critters when arrogance struck, the neighbor lady had her dog and herself in our yard and informs my wife that she doesn't want her dog eating that stuff, HELLO! quick fix remove yourself and dog from our yard and problem solved. This is just the beginning, the neighbor lady is sitting on our patio while her dog roams freely using our yard as a public dog walk. I was polite the first time and asked her to leave, the second time I was a bit more forceful and demanded she leave. Oh her and the husband thought they were creative and let the dog roam in the yard while they stood on their little strip of property. Well this made it a challenge for them as they had to come into the yard to pick up the poop. I ordered them out of the yard when they got offensive, they have some kind of idea that this yard also belongs to them. Sheriff told me there is no leash law in Sumter County, but that still should not allow others to freely use others yards as their own. What should be my next line of defense??

There is a leash law, call animal control.

[valuemkt]

Your rights do not allow you to infringe on the “domestic harmony” of others or your neighborhood.

And likewise, your dislike of dogs will not infringe upon my rights. So just walk by my house and mind your own business.

[Bill14564]

Note, the inclusion of fence
You can allow your dog to roam on your “Fenced” property, but must be on a leash if not fenced

You have asserted in several posts that dogs must be leashed while on the owner's property. Can you show an ordinance that states that? Yes, the definition of Direct Control includes those words but I could not find where the ordinance required a dog on it's owner's property to be under direct control.

I trust my dog and I trust the invisible fences but sometimes mistakes happen - and they can be costly. But, don't confuse safe practices with legal requirements.

[dewilson58]

You have asserted in several posts that dogs must be leashed while on the owner's property. Can you show an ordinance that states that? Yes, the definition of Direct Control includes those words but I could not find where the ordinance required a dog on it's owner's property to be under direct control.

I trust my dog and I trust the invisible fences but sometimes mistakes happen - and they can be costly. But, don't confuse safe practices with legal requirements.

try: Animal Services | Sumter County, FL - Official Website (https://sumtercountyfl.gov/1175/Animal-Services)

[tophcfa]

If I was in a charitable mood when a passerby said something like that, I would kindly tell him to keep walking. But I'm not in a charitable mood when someone infringes on my rights.. So my comment would probably end with .. And the horse you rode in on ..

If it was a "friend" I'd thank him for the input, say you want to change the topic and have a beer.

Your charitable mood shows great restraint. Fortunately, we live in a wonderful neighborhood where the only comment I have ever received from passerby’s is, “would it be OK if I pet your beautiful dog”.

[Fred2016]

I would keep your dog on a leash while outside. What's the chance your dog runs after another dog or a person. It is not worth the risk.

[dewilson58]

I would keep your dog on a leash while outside. What's the chance your dog runs after another dog or a person. It is not worth the risk.

"You can't make me"

:ohdear:

[tophcfa]

I would keep your dog on a leash while outside. What's the chance your dog runs after another dog or a person. It is not worth the risk.

The chance is zero, unless one of us tells her it is OK. She is a very well trained dog and would never leave my wife’s or my control without permission. That being said, not all dogs are properly trained.

[davebeau60]

One fleeting moment, passing dog barking, unaware car with animal, wild critter and your fur baby would be gone forever, not worth risk.
I agree! I've seen a bald eagle eating someone's very large cat on top of a pole within view of our house. It wasn't a feral cat since it was so big and fat and bigger than alot of dogs I see here. Just FYI...

[Rose Ann Vinci Igoe]

Thank you for posting this. Found “Sec. 4-7. - Public nuisance animals” very enlightening. We have a neighbor that lets their dog just continuously bark on their lanai most morning when we are trying to have a peaceful breakfast on our lanai. They will occasionally scream “hush” but then just let it keep barking. Time to start documenting these occurrences.

actually, feel bad for the fur baby....he is barking at something, most likely wants to come into the house, and doesn't want to be on the lani alone. He needs company (fur baby bud) or toys to play with or just let him in the house period.

[Kjbatl]

You have asserted in several posts that dogs must be leashed while on the owner's property. Can you show an ordinance that states that? Yes, the definition of Direct Control includes those words but I could not find where the ordinance required a dog on it's owner's property to be under direct control.

I trust my dog and I trust the invisible fences but sometimes mistakes happen - and they can be costly. But, don't confuse safe practices with legal requirements.

The paragraph below is directly from the Deed restrictions for the area I live in, I think this language is in all deed restrictions so you are required to keep your dog on a leash in your yard. I have personally had an incident recently when walking down a street where two dogs came out of a yard across the street looking friendly. When they got close, they started growling and circling. I yelled at the owner who was on her phone, she softly called them back, they finally went to her. I like dogs, but you cannot predict how an animal will respond to a stranger. Keep your dog on a leash even in your yard, it is just a courteous thing to do with houses so close together. Even though your neighbors seem to not care when your dog runs to them, not everyone wants to pet your animal every time they walk outside.
From deed restrictions:
Birds, fish, dogs and cats shall be permitted, with a maximum of two (2) pets per Homesite. Each Owner shall be personally responsible for any damage caused to dedicated or reserved areas by any such pet and shall be responsible to immediately remove and dispose of any excrement of such pet and shall be responsible to keep
such pet on a leash. No other animals, livestock, or poultry of any kind shall be raised, bred, or kept on any Hornesite or on dedicated or reserved areas.

[Bjeanj]

The dog has to be on a leash at all times, an invisible fence is an exception

Perhaps either you don’t live in Sumter County and not required to obey its laws, or I have mis-read/misunderstood the Sumter County laws regarding dogs not needing to be leashed in their own yards.

[Two Bills]

Is it just me, or does anyone else find all this 'fur baby' stuff a bit nauseating?
It's a b*****y dog.
No wonder over half the mannerless mutts are out of control, poor little things are suffering from identity crisis! :duck:

[fdpaq0580]

Is it just me, or does anyone else find all this 'fur baby' stuff a bit nauseating?
It's a b*****y dog.
No wonder over half the mannerless mutts are out of control, poor little things are suffering from identity crisis! :duck:

Full grown dog = dog. Baby dog = puppy.
Fur baby = derogatory term for child with hypertrichosis, aka: werewolf syndrome. Demeaning to both humans and dogs. Usually used to try and sound cute, or to anthropomorphize something not human.

While I like dogs, I hate it when people try to make their animal sound like something it isn't.

[CFrance]

Full grown dog = dog. Baby dog = puppy.
Fur baby = derogatory term for child with hypertrichosis, aka: werewolf syndrome. Demeaning to both humans and dogs. Usually used to try and sound cute, or to anthropomorphize something not human.

While I like dogs, I hate it when people try to make their animal sound like something it isn't.
I wuv my widdle 14-year-old fur-baby puppy-wuppy.

[Bill14564]

try: Animal Services | Sumter County, FL - Official Website (https://sumtercountyfl.gov/1175/Animal-Services)

Yep, obvious place to look... but not there either

[Bill14564]

The paragraph below is directly from the Deed restrictions for the area I live in, I think this language is in all deed restrictions so you are required to keep your dog on a leash in your yard. I have personally had an incident recently when walking down a street where two dogs came out of a yard across the street looking friendly. When they got close, they started growling and circling. I yelled at the owner who was on her phone, she softly called them back, they finally went to her. I like dogs, but you cannot predict how an animal will respond to a stranger. Keep your dog on a leash even in your yard, it is just a courteous thing to do with houses so close together. Even though your neighbors seem to not care when your dog runs to them, not everyone wants to pet your animal every time they walk outside.
From deed restrictions:
Birds, fish, dogs and cats shall be permitted, with a maximum of two (2) pets per Homesite. Each Owner shall be personally responsible for any damage caused to dedicated or reserved areas by any such pet and shall be responsible to immediately remove and dispose of any excrement of such pet and shall be responsible to keep
such pet on a leash. No other animals, livestock, or poultry of any kind shall be raised, bred, or kept on any Hornesite or on dedicated or reserved areas.

So do the deed restrictions say to you that your dog needs to be on a leash indoors as well? Or, are they referring to "dedicated or reserved areas?"

[dewilson58]

Yep, obvious place to look... but not there either

Really?????

Phone number

Email address

& they don't have answers???? :ohdear:

[Bill14564]

Really?????

Phone number

Email address

& they don't have answers???? :ohdear:

Not my question, not my problem, not my phone call to make.

My statement was that I did not see a reference to a leash law in the ordinance. I do not see a reference to a leash law on the animal control site either.d

I'm not a lawyer so saying, "this guy on ToTV told me..." won't help much in court. But if a poster is going claim that something is law then they sure ought to be able to point to some official source to back them up.

[dewilson58]

Not my question, not my problem, not my phone call to make.

You're asking questions: Can you show an ordinance that states that? Yes, the definition of Direct Control includes those words but I could not find where the ordinance required a dog on it's owner's property to be under direct control.

:loco::loco::loco:

[Babubhat]

Just saw a dog tied to a tree in front yard with no one in sight.

[Bill14564]

Not my question, not my problem, not my phone call to make.

My statement was that I did not see a reference to a leash law in the ordinance. I do not see a reference to a leash law on the animal control site either.d

I'm not a lawyer so saying, "this guy on ToTV told me..." won't help much in court. But if a poster is going claim that something is law then they sure ought to be able to point to some official source to back them up.

You're asking questions: Can you show an ordinance that states that? Yes, the definition of Direct Control includes those words but I could not find where the ordinance required a dog on it's owner's property to be under direct control.

:loco::loco::loco:

That question and statement were for TravelHunter who made the assertion. I was not asking the general board and I was not asking Animal Control, though if someone had an applicable link it would be helpful. TravelHunter made the assertion several times so they must have authoritative info to back it up. Their contact info might be useful but I'm sure he/she will see my post and reply (or not).

The Animal Control contact info is great for the OP.

[dewilson58]

I was not asking the general board

FYI:
Comment on a public board, it's public.

Private Messages, are much more private.

:ho:

[Bill14564]

FYI:
Comment on a public board, it's public.

Private Messages, are much more private.

:ho:

Thank you for that helpful piece of information.

[fdpaq0580]

I wuv my widdle 14-year-old fur-baby puppy-wuppy.

Hey, the correct term I "puppy-wuppy-woo". Got it?
😃😃😃

[HLudwig]

An incident where someone has their dog loose on their own property- if you are not 100% sure that your “friendly” dog will never leave your property then your dog should be tethered. Many dogs are fear reactive to strange dogs coming up to them and will be aggressive and it doesn’t matter how friendly your dog is. There are also people who are afraid of dogs.

[tophcfa]

An incident where someone has their dog loose on their own property- if you are not 100% sure that your “friendly” dog will never leave your property then your dog should be tethered. Many dogs are fear reactive to strange dogs coming up to them and will be aggressive and it doesn’t matter how friendly your dog is. There are also people who are afraid of dogs.

If your dog is on your property then you shouldn’t have to worry about a strange dog coming up to them. Once again, the problem is not with the dogs, it’s irresponsible owners not properly controlling their dogs.

[fdpaq0580]

If your dog is on your property then you shouldn’t have to worry about a strange dog coming up to them. Once again, the problem is not with the dogs, it’s irresponsible owners not properly controlling their dogs.

A key word here is "shouldn't". This indicates that you do have to worry about strange dogs, leashed or running loose.
Also correct about irresponsible owners. Amazing how many seem not to recognise their own irresponsible behavior and try to defend or deflect when it is pointed out.

[PugMom]

Invisible fence is great keeping your critter IN, but not great for keeping WILD critters OUT.

i agree with you, i'd be scared to death to keep 1 of these guys off leash due to the wild animal issue. even if it's your property, i've seen some of the critters wandering around here

[fdpaq0580]

Just saw a dog tied to a tree in front yard with no one in sight.

A fast food run/fly thru for our wild predators.
Good example of irresponsible pet ownership. I pitty the dog.