You must report all dog or cat bites. Call MCACC at (602) 506-PETS. If possible, confine the animal (without endangering yourself) first, and then call. You will be asked where the animals is, information about its breed, size, color and any distinct markings. You will also be asked if you know where the animal lives, and if it is wearing a collar or tag. An Animal Care and Control Officer will come out to the location to investigate. Learn more about the Community Approach to Dog Bite Prevention.

If the victim feels the dog is a real threat, he/she has the responsibility to file a vicious dog petition with their city or justice court. They can file the petition whether the dog is being held at MCACC or not. A judge will hold a hearing to determine if the dog is vicious. Both the victim and the dog owner will have an opportunity to present their case at the hearing.

The judge will then make a determination as to whether the dog is vicious or not. The judge has many options. For example, he/she can take no action, release the dog with restrictions (e.g., the dog will need to be neutered or wear a muzzle in public), or the judge can order that the dog be euthanized. The court can advise you on what options are available or will listen to your suggestions.

It is the job of MCACC to house the dog until the court orders that the dog be released or euthanized. If the court orders the dog�s release, the owner is responsible for paying all MCACC fees for housing and caring for the dog.

You can prevent your dog from biting and prevent yourself from being bitten. Please check out the following resource information:

• Staying safe around dogs and reading canine body posture
• Curbing cat aggression towards people
• Animal Bites
• Dog Bite Prevention
• Child Dog Bite Prevention