Owning an animal is a privilege and a big responsibility. The purpose of animal control laws are to protect the public health and safety and to protect animals from cruel treatment, neglect and injury. (Refer to City Code Animals chapter 14 on related link called municode.)
Some of the laws include:
- Dog License (Registration) - All dogs residing in Arvada are required to be licensed in Jefferson County. The dog license must be worn on the collar of the dog at all times. See link for registration form and directions
- Leash Law - Animals allowed to roam the streets are not only a nuisance and danger to the public, but are in constant danger themselves from cars, wildlife and other animals. All animals except cats must be on a leash or confined on the owner’s property at all times.
- Pooper Scooper Law - Owners of dogs are required to promptly remove droppings left by their animals on any property other than their own. Additionally, private yards and dog runs must also be cleaned regularly by the pet owners to avoid insects and odor problems.
- Rabies & ID Required - It is required all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed Colorado Veterinarian. The vaccination must be done within 30 days of pet acquisition. Effective July 1, 2007 cats are required by law to wear their rabies tags on their collar.
- Neglect/Cruelty - Failure of the owner of any animal to provide adequate food, water, shelter, opportunity for exercise, socialization, grooming and veterinarian care constitutes a violation of this ordinance. In addition, any intentional acts of cruelty such as abandonment, harassment or torture will be vigorously prosecuted.
It is also against city ordinance to transport any animal in an open bed truck in such a manner as to permit the animal to jump or be thrown from the vehicle.