Restraint:  The control of a dog or cat under the following circumstances:

            (1)        When it is controlled by a line or leash not more than six (6) feet in length, if the line or leash is held by a human being who is capable of controlling or governing the dog or cat in question; or

            (2)        When it is within a fully enclosed vehicle; or

            (3)        When it is on the premises of the custodian and the animal does not have access to a sidewalk or street.

Stray:  Any animal not under restraint as defined by these Regulations. The display of a vaccination tag or license tag does not change the fact that the dog or cat is a stray for the purposes of these Regulations.

SECTION 4.   RESTRAINT AND IMPOUNDMENT

A.        All dogs and cats must be kept under restraint while in the unincorporated areas of Harris County, Texas.  The custodian of a dog or cat is not authorized to have, harbor or keep any unlicensed dog or cat, or to allow any dog or cat to become a stray.

B.         The custodian of every dog or cat is responsible for any behavior of a dog or cat under the provisions of these Regulations.

C.        Animal Control and other persons designated by Animal Control have the authority to impound the following:

            (1)        All stray dogs and cats;

            (2)        Any animal that has bitten or scratched a person; and

            (3)        Any animal that has been exposed to rabies.

D.        All animals seized and confined under this section should be impounded in an impoundment facility designated by Animal Control.

E.         Animal Control officers are authorized to enter any unsecured or unfenced lot, tract or parcel of land for the purpose of seizing any stray dog or cat.

While it may be fun to have your dog with you while you run or walk in the park area or neighborhood, it is against the law, unless the dog is properly restrained.

While it may be nice to have your animal out in the yard while you work or play, it is against the law, unless the animal is properly restrained.

Let’s all help keep our community a safe and comfortable place for all our residents by being responsible pet owners. This will not only protect anyone who may be walking, jogging or bicycling in the area, but also the pet owner who could be held legally responsible or possibly sued for failing to properly restrain their pet.