Proposed pet ordinance back on drawing board

DEXTER – A local man who owns two hunting beagles took exception Thursday to a proposed ordinance that would level fines for dogs running at large.

Resident William Gelzinis suggested to the Dexter Town Council on Thursday that an exception should be made for dogs used for hunting since they sometimes elude their owners for periods of time.

Because the proposed animal ordinance did not address hunting dogs or kennels, the council voted to table the document pending possible amendments.

The updated ordinance carries a $20 fine for a dog running at large. Fines for subsequent offenses would increase in multiples of $10.

Gelzinis, who lives outside the village area, said his dogs carry identification on their collars and he immediately retrieves the animals once they have been found.

“These are free-running dogs and you can’t keep track of them; sometimes you lose one,” Gelzinis said. He said the $20 fee was a “little bit stiff” for a free-running hunting dog.

The proposed ordinance also imposes a $20 fine for habitual barking or howling. Fines for subsequent offenses would increase in multiples of $10.

The need to update the town’s animal ordinance was prompted by a complaint from a former Massachusetts man who moved across from a kennel but could not stand the noise, the council was told.

Jana Wood, code enforcement officer, said the proposed ordinance is designed to protect residents.

“It’s meant to treat everyone the same,” she told the council.

Council Chairman Fred Sherburne noted that such issues are always a lot more complicated than they need to be.

“I think we need to pass a common sense ordinance,” he said.

Diana Bowley may be reached at dianabdn@verizon.net or 876-4579.