Ogden cracks down on loose dogs

OGDEN, Utah — Ogden is stepping up foot patrols because of complaints about dogs running at large.

Ogden's animal services manager, Bob Geier, told the Standard-Examiner of Ogden that random patrols have led to about 30 citations in the past two months for dog owners accused of violating a city leash law.

The newspaper reported violations are a class B misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail.

The city's public-services director, Jay Lowder, said loose dogs bounding along narrow trails are scaring hikers and leaving a mess.

The city wants dog owners to use an off-leash park for running, not public trails.

The dog park near Serge Simmons Field has double gates, obstacle courses and watering stations.