Please note that new a new dog treatment ordinance is in affect for Indianapolis. This is separate from / in addition to anything listed in the Franklin Trace covenants.
A note from Ryan Clem, Director of Community Outreach, from Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services
A new ordinance that went into effect this year sets general requirements for animal care and treatment (Revised Code of the Consolidated City and County, Indianapolis/Marion County, IN Section 531-401).
Shelter
Your dog must have access to:
• a shelter constructed of solid wood or other weather resistant materials consisting of solid walls on all sides
• a dry floor raised above the ground
• a roof sloped away from the entrance to protect your dog from weather and extreme cold
During the winter months and when the temperature is below 40°F:
• the shelter must be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around
• the entrance must be covered by a flexible wind proofing material or self-closing door
• the shelter must contain clean, dry bedding which must consist of an insulating material that does not retain moisture, such as straw, and sufficient depth for your dog to burrow
Pen or Fenced Enclosure
• Your dog must have adequate space for exercise when confined to a kennel, enclosure or pen which must be at least 100 square feet (for example: 10ft. x 10ft.)
• Any dog over 80 pounds must be provided with a space of 150 square feet
• For each additional dog inside the enclosure, an extra 50 square feet must be provided
Tethering
It is against the law to tether (chain) your dog if any of the following is true:
• Your dog is is less than 6 months old
• Your dog is sick or injured
• It is between 11PM & 6AM
• Your dog is not spayed or neutered, unless you are an adult, your dog is in your visual range, and you are outside with your dog
Extreme Weather
Your dog must be brought inside a temperature controlled building, such as your house when:
• the temperature outside is 20°F & below
• the temperature outside is 90°F & above
• there’s a heat advisory
• there’s a windchill warning
• a tornado warning has been issued
Shade
On any day where the temperature is at or above 80°F, your dog’s shelter must be shaded by either trees or a tarp.
To get help for your dog, call the Friends of Indianapolis Dogs Outside (FIDO): 317-221-1314
To report a dog in need, call the Mayors Action Center: 317-327-4622