Title
Ordinance amending the Pittsburgh City Code at Title 6: Conduct, Article III: - Dogs, Cats and Other Animals, Chapter 633 Dog and Cats, by amending section 633.10 Shelters providing for and setting forth requirements for outdoor shelters for dogs; and, penalty for violation.
Body
WHEREAS, the Council of the City of Pittsburgh recognizes that dogs are at all times to be humanely treated by their owners, particularly by owners who keep their dogs out of doors; and
WHEREAS, the City now desires to update and adopt the following provisions related to outdoor shelters for dogs, know commonly as "dog houses."
Now, Therefore, the Council of the City of Pittsburgh amends Section 634.07 as follows:
ยง 633.10 - SHELTERS
(a) Dogs and cats shall be provided access to shelter which protects them against inclement weather, keep them dry and allows them to preserve a normal body temperature.
(b) If dog houses with chains are used as shelters for dogs kept outside, the chains used shall contain a swivel or be attached to a swivel and shall be placed and attached so that they cannot become entangled with the chains of other dogs or another object. The chains shall be a type commonly used for the size and type of dog involved and shall be attached to the dog by means of a well-fitted buckle-type collar. The chains shall be at least three (3) times the length of the dog as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, but no less than ten (10) feet in length and shall allow the dog convenient access to the dog house.
(c) No animal may be housed on a temporary or permanent basis in any shelter constructed of uninsulated metal.
(1) A person in charge or control of any dog which is kept outdoors or in an unheated enclosure shall provide the dog with shelter and bedding as prescribed in this section as a minimum.
(2) Building specifications. The shelter shall be a moisture proof and windproof structure of suitable size to accommodate the dog and allow retention of body heat. It shall be made of durable material with a solid, moisture proof floor raised at least three inches (3") from the ground, the roof should extend eight inches (8") over the doorway to keep out rain. In no instance shall a dog house be constructed of metal or any material that readily conducts heat or cold.
(3) Between November 1 and March 31 the structure must have a windbreak at the entrance. The structure shall be provided with a sufficient quantity of suitable bedding material consisting of straw, cedar shavings, or the equivalent, to provide insulation and protection against cold and dampness and promote retention of body heat.
(a) Hay, blankets, rags and other material(s) that retain moisture shall not be utilized for bedding. These materials retain moisture and freeze when wet.
(4) Shade from the direct rays of the sun, during the months of May to October shall be provided.
(c) Dog houses shall be of a size to accommodate the dogs so as to allow for ample room for the dog as follows:
Depth = dog's length + 12"
Width = dog's length + 18"
Height = dog's height + 3" (low side), height + 9" (high side)
(d) Penalty: Any person who violates any provision(s) of 634.07 shall commit a summary offense, and shall, upon being found guilty by a Magisterial District Judge, after hearing, pay a fine not to exceed $500, together with all enforcement and shelter costs in the event a dog must be confiscated, and all court costs as permitted by law. Each day of violation shall constitute a separate offense, which shall be subject to prosecution as such.
Effective Date: This Ordinance shall be effective upon the Mayors signature or, if the Mayor does not sign the amended Ordinance, it shall be effective eleven (11) days after its enactment by Council.