Councilman Calling For Changes After Fatal Dog Mauling In Frick Park
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A day after a dog was mauled and killed in a city park; the city councilmember who represents the area is calling for more signage and possibly the presence of park rangers.
The owner of a cockapoo says her dog was mauled and killed by a greyhound. Both dogs had been running free in the off leash area in Frick Park.
Dan Hathaway takes his dog to the park several days a week and had not heard about the mauling death.
"That's horrible. I think the owner of the dog that bit the other dog should be responsible," he said.
Councilman Corey O'Connor says that's pretty much the way the city law department sees it as well.
"We've asked the law department what occurs in that situation. The animal control department has told us that where a dog is off-leash that the owner is responsible. It's almost 'off-leash at you own risk' is what we were told by animal control."
The mauling happened Tuesday just after 5 p.m. Dog owners describe it as a place where their pets can run free and enjoy the company of other animals.
Dan Palks says every now and then a dog will get too aggressive.
"I think you have a responsibility to know your dog's behavior before coming into a park like this, and if there is any question, you should refrain from coming to a park like this," he said.
Councilman O'Connor says he is working on putting some measures in place, including putting up more signs in the park informing dog owners of their liability.
"The thought would be to do a park ranger system that would help to inform residents of areas in the park where they can let the dog off the leash," he added.
Councilman O'Connor says he is working with the mayor's office and other council members to get these measures passed. He adds he wants to inform people, but also wants to welcome them in the parks as well.
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