Urbandale city council approves first reading of new leash ordinance

URBANDALE, Iowa — The city of Urbandale is moving forward with a new leash ordinance.

The proposal would require pet owners to have their dogs on a leash no more than six feet long.

Right now, dogs can be off leash if they heel to the owner’s commands. Urbandale police say the requirement makes enforcement easier if a dog is causing issues.

While some see the new ordinance as a way to keep everyone safe, others say it’s not fair to good dogs. “Rather than pushing all the good dogs by letting them not have any fun, let’s just address the ones that are not training their dogs right,” said Urbandale resident Mary Lou Hill.

The first of three readings of the ordinance was held at Tuesday night’s city council meeting.

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