Conneaut Lake, PA asked in Animal / Dog Law, Criminal Law and Agricultural Law for Pennsylvania

Q: How is it determined that a dog is a "dangerous dog"? and how do I go about having a dog/dogs declared as dangerous?

I live in the country (rural/farm land area - see location). My neighbor lets his dogs run loose constantly. I've let him know that under PA Dog Law he is required to keep his dogs "under his control - at ALL times" yet, he still allows them to run loose stating South Shenango Township "allows" dogs to run loose and there is a prohibition on the discharge of firearms in our specific local (I can supply exact location if needed). I own multiple cats and a dog and I do let my cats outside during the daytime. On more than one occasion his dog(s) have chased my cats onto and/or on my property (right past of my front door) with the intent to harm my cat(s). What do I need to do to have his dog(s) declared a "Dangerous dog" and can I legally defend my property (cats) on my property with lethal force, if ABSOLUTELY necessary? (There are no township or Crawford County laws prohibiting the discharge of firearms of which I am aware in this area).

1 Lawyer Answer
Peter N. Munsing
Peter N. Munsing
Answered
  • Wyomissing, PA
  • Licensed in Pennsylvania

A: your dog warden should be able to tell you.

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