PONDERAY — With a number of incidents reported over the past year, Ponderay city officials are reminding the community to keep their dogs on a leash when they are out and about.

“We have had several incidents where we have had some people get bit,” said Ponderay Mayor Steve Geiger. “We just want to let people know that we do have an ordinance, and it is best to keep your dogs on a leash.”

Under the city’s ordinance, dog owners “at all times” must prevent their dogs from being at large. Anyone walking their dog should have it on a leash, which is defined in the ordinance as a rope or other material “no longer than six feet in length.” Exceptions are made for dogs assisting peace officers engaged in law-enforcement duties, obedience trials, or hunting pursuant to Idaho Fish and Game regulations.

In addition, vicious animals must be restrained in a manner that “prevents any attacks or bites on persons or other animals engaged in lawful activities.” Vicious animals include any animal that has bitten, attacked or otherwise caused injury to a person within a 48-month period; has once attacked or bitten a person engaged in lawful activity causing death or serious injury, Anyone bitten by an animal within city limits should report it to the Ponderay Police Department, as well as Panhandle Health District.

Geiger said he would like to remind people to clean up after their dogs as well.

For those pups who do enjoy socializing, the areas first off-leash dog park will be opening in Ponderay this summer. The 1.8-acre lot adjacent to the animal shelter is being transformed into a place for dogs to run, play and visit. The fenced park will have separate areas for small dogs and big dogs, with a gazebo, lighting, water fountains, benches, agility equipment and more.

The park will be ADA compliant as well, featuring wide concrete paths. The trail system around the outside of the fence will not only benefit dogs in training who are not ready for off-leash, it will connect the dog park to McNearney park to the north.

While project manager Steve Nybank initially hoped the park would open this month, construction got a late start this spring due to weather. Nybank said a public grand opening, with live music, will be held from 3-6 p.m. on July 28.

Mary Malone can be reached by email at [email protected] and follow her on Twitter @MaryDailyBee.