Angel's Law and dangerous dogs in Albuquerque
Albuquerque treats dangerous dogs and irresponsible owners as separate problems, with specific requirements for each.
Two tiers
The City of Albuquerque dangerous dogs page describes a potentially dangerous dog as one that has injured a person or companion animal less severely than a serious injury, chased or menaced aggressively without provocation, or acted aggressively in a fenced yard and appeared able to jump out. A dangerous dog has caused serious injury, great bodily harm or mortal injury without provocation, or repeated the earlier behavior after being designated.
What owners of dangerous dogs must do
The Albuquerque code section 9-17-5 (dangerous dog) requires sterilization and microchipping, secure fencing (voice commands and electronic fences are not enough), an adequate leash and constant control off the property, no tethering without constant control, and an insurance policy of at least $500,000. The Albuquerque code section 9-17-4 (potentially dangerous dog) bars chaining or tying any dog for more than one hour in 24, with a permit available.
A setup checklist
- Fence the yard before the dog arrives.
- Post a visible warning sign.
- Train every adult in the household on commands.
- Keep vaccinations and microchip current.
- Tell your insurer which dog is coming.
Ask how the dog copes
A provider should explain how the dog behaves around visitors and delivery drivers. A claim that it never needs correcting is a warning sign.
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