Santa Ana : Pet Owners Warned of Stiffer Penalties

Pet owners are advised to heed recent changes in the city’s animal control laws, including the reclassification of violations from infractions to misdemeanors, stiffer fines and possible prison sentences.

Allowing a dog to be in a public place in Santa Ana without a collar, current license tag or leash will subject the animal’s owner to at least a $25 fine for the first offense and a minimum penalty of $100 for a second offense within a year of a prior conviction. Previously, first offenses were punishable by a $10 fine, while second and subsequent offenses brought fines of $50 to $100.

The same penalties apply for those permitting a dog to trespass on private property.

Unspayed female dogs must not be allowed to run loose or be unleashed or unfenced while in heat. A first offense will bring a minimum fine of $50. For a second offense within a year of a prior conviction, owners will face a minimum $100 fine. Previously, fines ranged from $25 to $100.

All violations of the city’s animal control ordinance carry maximum penalties of six months’ imprisonment and a $1,000 fine for each offense. Each day in which a violation occurs is considered a separate offense.

The changes do not affect the prosecution of violations before April 18, the day the changes took effect. For more information, call 834-4116.