Pets in public places… Please be a kind neighbor

#BonnieHays

While we are lucky to live in a community that caters to pets, there are several Washington County codes to keep in mind while you are out and about with your furry friend.

Please be a kind neighbor, keep people and other animals safe, and avoid a fine by doing the following:

Keep your dog on a leash (seven feet or shorter) when not in a designated off-leash area.

Clean up after your pet.

Keep your dog’s license current.

Your dog may be friendly, but people may be uncomfortable with a loose dog in a public space. Additionally, some leashed dogs are reactive to unleashed dogs approaching them. Keep your dog on a leash unless they are on your own property, you have permission from the property owner for your dog to be off leash, or you are in a space specifically designated as an off-leash area, such as a dog park.

Pet waste is unpleasant to step in and can contain parasites or bacteria that can be harmful to both animals and people. Be sure to scoop that poop and put it in a garbage can. Pet waste should never be tossed into a storm drain, recycling bin or a compost pile that is not specifically set up for animal waste.

Finally, all dogs in Washington County must be licensed. Animal Services offers options for you to license your dog in person, online, by mail or over the phone. Check our website or call us at 503-846-7041 for information. Not only is a current rabies vaccine required for your dog’s license to be valid, Oregon law requires this vaccine for dogs. Your veterinarian can help you keep your dog’s vaccines up to date.

For more information on these topics and more, please visit www.WashingtonCountyPets.com. The Bonnie Hays Animal Shelter is located in Hillsboro at 1901 SE 24th Av