Leash Laws in Loveland

Dogs make great pets, and they do exceptionally well in Loveland, where there are so many beautiful outdoor spaces for them to explore with their owners.

However, even the best-behaved canines may bite or attack another person if they get scared or confused. This is why understanding and adhering to leash laws in Loveland, which are designed to keep everyone safe, is crucial for all dog owners.

If another person’s dog attacks you or your loved one, their compliance with these rules could impact your legal options.

Our reliable legal team is here to inform you of your rights and help calculate damages following a dog attack. You do not have to navigate this complex process alone. Schedule an initial meeting with one of our knowledgeable canine bite attorneys today to discover which forms of compensation could be available to you.

Understanding City Rules Regarding Leashes

The primary leash law in Loveland is found in Loveland Municipal Code § 6.20.010. This rule provides that no owner or person in charge of or responsible for an animal shall allow it to be at large while in the city.

A dog is at large when it is unleashed and not within a fence or other enclosure. This includes canines on a tether if they can reach a street, sidewalk, or other public area.

The same rule applies to open areas such as parks or common areas of apartment complexes or subdivisions unless they are specifically designated by official signage as off-leash areas.

The law is even stricter regarding female dogs or animals that are unspayed and in heat. Any such pet must be confined to an enclosed space so that other animals cannot reach it, except for planned breeding by the owner.

Consequences of Violating Leash Laws

Loveland Municipal Code § 1.12.010 provides that any violation of the code, including violating Loveland’s leash laws, will carry a penalty of either a fine or imprisonment. The fine could be up to the maximum amount allowed by law for violating a municipal code, which, according to Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-10-113, is $2,650, adjusted for inflation. Time in prison could be up to 364 days.

These penalties are likely steep enough to serve as a deterrent for a dog owner. Still, in the event of an attack, the penalties do not provide any direct assistance to the person injured by the animal.

Instead, the injured party could file a lawsuit against the owner, alleging that the owner was negligent in handling their pet, to receive compensation for the damages and expenses resulting from the incident.

In that situation, the owner’s violation of Loveland’s leash laws could be used as evidence of negligence, showing that they failed to control their dog as a reasonable person would have in similar circumstances.

Get in Touch With a Loyal Attorney Regarding Loveland’s Leash Laws Today

Pets are capable of injuring people, sometimes catastrophically. If you own an animal, it is worth ensuring that you comply with the appropriate rules to increase safety and limit your liability.

However, if you or a loved one has been hurt by another person’s dog, analyzing their compliance could help your ability to receive compensation for your losses. A seasoned personal injury attorney with experience navigating leash laws in Loveland could advise and assist you with your case.

Schedule an initial consultation with our dedicated team today to learn more.