Dogs running at large pose risks to the dog, other animals, people and property. Law enforcement officers respond to calls of dogs running at large and Animal Control often impounds these dogs.

A dog running at large refers to a dog not under the direct physical control of its owner or a responsible handler, according dictionary.justia.com. However, legal interpretation and application can vary depending on local ordinances, state laws and specific circumstances.

The Fayetteville-Lincoln County Animal Control recently posted Tennessee Law outlining the potential penalties and civil liability for owners of dogs allowing them to run at large.

Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) § 44-8-408 states that owners are responsible for keeping their dogs under control at all

See Dogs, Page 4A ^ times. Dogs found running at large may be impounded by animal control.

Whether a dog owner lives in Fayetteville or Lincoln County, Tennessee law states that it is unlawful for a dog owner to allow a dog to run uncontrolled. The law applies to letting a dog run on another person’s property without permission, on public roads, highways, streets or other places. Potential penalties include the owner being charged with a Class C Misdemeanor if a dog is running at large without causing damage or injury. The owner may be charged with a Class A Misdemeanor if property damage is caused by the dog. Felony charges may apply if the dog causes bodily injury, serious bodily injury or death.

Tennessee law also requires dog owners to keep dogs under reasonable control and may hold owners financially responsible for injuries caused by dogs running at large.

To report a dog running at large, contact Fayetteville-Lincoln County Animal Control at 931-808-3151.