Posted: April 22, 2009

As financial difficulties take a toll on pet owners, forcing more animals to the streets or into shelters, some Oak Creek residents find it impossible to turn the forlorn creatures away.

Dawn Stenbol is one of those residents. But because of a two-dog limit in place in the city, she cannot legally open her door to canines in need.

Stenbol asked the Common Council on April 21 to raise the limit to three, and the mayor said he would form a committee to study the issue.

How many is too many?

The city's licensing code limits residents to no more than two dogs, with the exception of a litter of pups, which may be kept for no more than five months.

According to Stenbol's research, South Milwaukee, Cudahy, Franklin, Greenfield and Caledonia allow residents to keep at least three, and as many as six, dogs. In some cases, "dog fancier" licenses are required or minimum lot sizes must be met.

"We can do something to make a difference, but we need your help," she told the council. "Please don't jump at the reaction that some people are going to complain."

The possibility of creating a public nuisance by allowing more dogs, however, could not be ignored.

Thomas Michalski, 6th District alderman, said that even with the existing code, he has received several complaints from residents related to dogs barking excessively or charging people. Although he would be willing to increase the number of dogs allowed on larger lot sizes, Michalski said he believes that three dogs is too many for the standard lot size of about one-quarter to one-third of an acre.

Cat limits needed, too?

Stenbol said complaints likely have less to do with the number of dogs allowed and more to do with people irresponsibly handling their pets, adding that she would be willing to provide public education on responsible pet ownership.

"We have a number of people here in the community that do want to see acceptable dog behavior, and want to see acceptable people taking care of dogs in need," resident Michele Perlongo agreed.

Before proceeding with any changes, more research will be necessary, the council decided.

Mayor Richard Bolender suggested forming a committee within the next month to examine possible revisions to both the number of dogs and cats allowed in the city.

There is no limit on the number of cats that residents can have, which has created some health-related concerns and should be addressed, he said.

 

Julie Becker can be reached at (262) 446-6606.