It’s that time of year again — the time when some Bartlesville residents need to be reminded to keep their dogs on-leash when in public, including City-owned parks and Pathfinder Parkway trails.
Spring typically brings more dog walkers out to take advantage of the warmer weather — and that is particularly true now, when residents are restricted in their activities due to the threat of coronavirus.
But, with the exception of Cooper Dog Park, which is located in the Lee Lake Complex on Adams Boulevard east of Silver Lake Road, dogs are not permitted to be off-leash in public.
Pet owners who violate the law could face fines from $100 to $249, depending on whether the dog is licensed properly and has proof of vaccinations, both of which are also required by City ordinance.
If you encounter problems with an off-leash dog, the best thing to do is to call the police department, 918.338.4001, right away so an animal control or police officer can identify violators and enforce the City’s ordinances.
What to do
If you are attacked by a dog:
- Call for medical help, if necessary, by calling 911 or your medical provider.
- Call Animal Control at 918.338.4001 for a report.
If your dog (or other pet) is attacked by another dog:
- Contact your veterinary clinic for assistance, if necessary.
- Call Animal Control at 918.338.4001 for a report.
If you or your pet are threatened by another dog or an aggressive dog is observed on City-owned property but no injuries are involved:
- Contact Parks Superintendent Bobby Robinson at 918.338.4154 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to report the incident.
- Before 7 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m., contact Animal Control at 918.338.4001.
- If the incident occurs at Cooper Dog Park, contact Robinson between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. If after hours, contact Bark Park Buddies, which provides oversight of the park, at 918.766.1129.
In all cases
- If possible, obtain the dog owner’s contact information, tag number or other identifying information.
- Be prepared to describe the dog that attacked you.
- Ask potential witnesses to remain in the area until a report is made.
Dogs are allowed at all City parks, which are open from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m., as long as they are made to comply with the leash, licensing and vaccination laws. (For more information about Cooper Dog Park, see www.cityofbartlesville.org or Cooper Dog Park Facebook.)