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Leash Law FAQ's
Q. What is the "leash law" in Wichita?
A. The leash law is a provision in the code of the City of Wichita that prohibits certain domestic animals from roaming free. The leash law (City Code 6.04.040a) states that "Any owner of any animal, other than cats, found running at large within the corporate limits of the city shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor." Section 6 of the code also defines "running at large" as "any animal that is not confined within a fenced enclosure or shelter or under the control of a person, either by lead, cord, rope, or chain; provided, that an animal may be considered confined if it is on a leash, rope, or chain which is sufficient to keep the animal on the premises where picketed." The law goes on to include electronic fencing as adequate confinement if "the premises of the owner are clearly and prominently marked to show the existence of the electronic fencing system and the animal is equipped with the necessary and operating components of the system required to confine the animal to the owner's property." What that means is that all animals except cats must be confined by either a leash, rope, chain, fenced area (conventional or electronic), or inside a dwelling 24 hours a day and not allowed to roam free without the benefit of one or more of these types of restraint.
Q. Why does the leash law exist?
A. The leash law is important in order to protect the community health and prevent the pain and suffering that is caused to both animals and humans by free roaming pets.
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Animals roaming free are more likely to come into contact with known rabies carriers such as skunks and raccoons. They are also more likely to spread parasites and other diseases to animals and humans.
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Each year, free roaming animals cause millions of dollars in insurance claims, property loss and damage, medical bills, and loss of productivity. Animal bite injuries, property damage, and car accidents are major problems caused by animals allowed to run at large.
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Animals allowed to roam contribute markedly to pet overpopulation. Millions of pets are euthanised each year at animal shelters, humane societies, and ASPCA's in efforts to just keep up with the burgeoning pet population in our nation. Free roaming, unaltered pets breed indiscriminately and add to this already tragic situation. In addition to contributing to pet overpopulation, packs of dogs pursuing a female in season become more aggressive and will bite more readily.
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