Puyallup Pet Owners Face New Laws, Reduced Fines

Starting in February, Puyallup pet owners will face new restrictions and reduced pet fines, after the council approved changes in the city municipal code at the Jan. 22 meeting.

The following changes, in conjuction with Metro Animal Services, will take effect the third week of February for pet owners within Puyallup city limits, according to the city website:

• The maximum number of adult dogs and/or cats in a household is five
• The base fine for animal control citations has been reduced
• For the health and safety of animals, it is now illegal to leave a pet in a car without proper ventilation
• The leash law requires a physical leash; electronic leashes do not fulfill the requirement
• Rabies vaccines are required

In 2012, Metro issued 16 civil infractions for animal control violations. Some of these infractions had multiple violations charged within each infraction. In addition, Metro issued 170 written warnings for animal control violations.

Here's the breakdown of the new cost structure, with reduced base fees:

First violation: $25 (base penalty) + $26 (state assessments) = $51

Second violation: $125 (base penalty) + $131 (state assessments) = $256

Third and subsequent violations = $250 (base penalty) + $263 (state assessments) = $513

Violation resulting in physical harm to person or animal = $250 (base penalty) + $263 (state assessments) = $513      

What do you think of the changes to Puyallup's animal control policies? Tell us in the comments.