NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WKBW) — A new Niagara Falls law will put the bite on dog owners who leave their pets, tethered or otherwise, outside for more than 1 hour in extreme hot or cold weather.
The Niagara Falls City Council passed the new ordinance unanimously and it was signed into law by Mayor Paul Dyster this morning.
Under the new law, it is a violation to leave a dog outside for more than 1 hour when temperatures fall below 32 degrees or exceed 90 degrees.
It also applies when the National Weather Service issues a weather alert.
Violators could face up to 15 days in jail and a penalty up to $250.
A civil fine can also be imposed ranging from $250 to $1,000 for repeat offenders.
The new law gives the courts the option to force the surrender of a dog left outside in these conditions.
If convicted, a violator will have their name placed on the Animal Abuser Register as an animal abuser.
7 Eyewitness News Reporter Ed Reilly has more on how Niagara Falls is putting 'teeth' into the fight against animal abuse.
