Dogs are among the most popular companion animals in Maryland and across the United States. People own dogs for companionship or to incentivize daily exercise. They train dogs to provide them with services, including home security or livestock management.
For most people, dogs are companions and sources of daily enrichment. However, they are also dangerous for owners and other people. Owners are subject to certain legal obligations to help limit that risk. They have to meet their animal’s basic needs. They are also subject to leash laws.
What rules govern leashing pet dogs in Maryland?
Dogs in public should be on leashes
As a general standard, there is an expectation that people who own dogs should keep them on leashes whenever they are not on their own private property. Even while outside in the owner’s yard, a leash may be necessary if there isn’t a fence in place to keep the dog from running loose.
The only real exception to leash laws for public spaces applies at dog parks with fenced runs for canine companions. People who take their dogs up the street or to other sorts of parks generally need to keep their dogs on leashes for the entire time that they are in public.
What are the penalties for leash law violations?
Maryland actually does not have a statewide law about leash violation penalties. Instead, each county establishes its own penalties. For example, those cited in Montgomery County could face a $100 ticket for a first offense.
Any subsequent violation of the leash law could result in up to $500 in fines. County authorities in most jurisdictions can also impound any dog found running loose.
What happens after a dog bite?
Unfortunately, dogs running loose are a major safety hazard for others. A dog that is not under the direct control of its owner could become aggressive or might bite out of fear in some cases. When that happens, the animal’s owner is often liable.
Their violation of the leash law is a form of misconduct that opens them up to liability. A dog can bite a human, causing severe lacerations. The injured party may be at risk of an infection. They may require stitches and may have an extended recovery ahead of them. In more extreme cases, dog bites can result in broken bones or permanently disfiguring scars.
It may be possible to hold an animal’s owner accountable for the harm inflicted in a dog bite attack. Some owners have direct liability, but many dog owners have insurance that can pay for dog bite attack expenses. The premises liability coverage provided through homeowners or renters insurance can cover the costs of a dog bite incident.
Understanding the law can help those affected by a dog bite attack take appropriate steps. Dog owners are generally liable if their dogs are aggressive and they do not keep them properly restrained.