Where can I find the Township animal regulations?

Chapter 93 of the Township Code outlines animal regulations.

CLICK HERE for Chapter 93 of the Township Code.  

What do I do about my neighbor’s barking dog?

Township Code Chapter 93 § 93-5 states that excessive, continuous, or untimely noisemaking by any dog or other domestic pet, including but not limited to barking, howling, screeching, yelping, or baying which disturbs the quiet of any person or the community, or molesting passersby, chasing motor vehicles or bicycles, habitual attacking of other domestic animals or trespassing on public or private property shall all be deemed public nuisances and a violation of the provisions of this article. It is preferable that residents attempt to establish good communication with each other to alleviate conflicts, but if the situation becomes a nuisance, residents may summon the Northern Regional Police Department to this non-emergency by calling (724) 625-3157.

What are the rules on dogs running at large?

Township Code Chapter 93 § 93-5 states that it is unlawful for any dog or other domestic pet owner to permit or allow the same to run at large within the Township of Pine. All dogs and other domestic pets shall be kept under restraint at all times, either by a leash not to exceed eight (8) feet in length, held by the owner or a responsible person or his agent or by being kept within the exclusive premises of the owner or his agent. The State dog law mandates that owners have control over their dogs at all times. The best way to establish control is with a leash. The Northern Regional Police Department is tasked with enforcing calls for dogs at large. You can summon the officers by calling (724) 625-3157. 

When do I have to license my dog?

The County Treasurer is tasked with issuing licenses to dogs older than 3 months. The license is renewable annually, and there are lifetime dog licenses available. 

CLICK HERE for the Allegheny County Treasurer's website.  

What parks in the Township allow for my dogs to run off-leash?

No dogs are permitted off-leash in any Township Park, including Pine Community Park and Karrington Woods Park. Dogs are permitted off-leash in 2 off-leash dog parks in North Park: along Pearce Mill Road and Water Road. 

Who do I call with a dog complaint?

Call the Northern Regional Police Department at (724) 625-3157 to file the complaint.

What do I do if a dog bites me?

Here are some strategies that could keep an aggressive dog from attacking you:

• Try commanding the dog to “sit” or “stay.” This could give you time to think or even get away.
• Do not make any sudden movements. Rather, keep your hands down at your sides. This may serve to calm the dog down and show that you are not a threat.
• Do not turn your back on the dog. Canines often take that as a sign of weakness or an opening to attack.
• Further, do not run away! That will probably only cause the dog to come after you.
• Don’t smile. Bared teeth may signify aggression in a dog.
• Back away slowly once the dog stops paying attention to you.

If a dog does attack and the wound is serious, call 911. Dispatchers will send appropriate responders. If the bite is not serious, call (724) 625-3157, and the Northern Regional Police Department will respond to take a “Bite” report. The officers will ensure the offending dog is licensed properly and has current shots. They will also issue a quarantine to the dog owner to ensure the animal is controlled and monitored for infectious diseases.

What are my responsibilities if my dog bites someone else?

See the answer above. Also, all dog owners are obligated to have their pets licensed and inoculated with required shots.

Who do I call if I think a dog is being mistreated?

Calling 911 or (724) 625-3157 will bring the appropriate responders to the scene of a complaint in the Township of Pine. The officers will assess the situation and take appropriate action. You can also call Animal Friends at (412) 847-7066 to report animal cruelty. 

What do I do if my dog runs away?

Call 911 or (724) 625-3157 and report the lost pet.
The Northern Regional Police Department posts photos and descriptions of found animals on its Facebook page.
CLICK HERE for the Northern Regional Police Department Facebook. 

What do I do if I see a stray dog in my neighborhood?

Call (724) 625-3157, and the Northern Regional Police Department will respond to capture the animal if possible. You can also call the Allegheny County Dog Warden at (412) 418-2163.

Where can I find information about the PA State Dog Laws?

For State Dog laws, click on the link below:
PA Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement