What the Illinois Animal Control Act Requires

Owning a pet comes with a variety of responsibilities, and in Illinois, some of these responsibilities are clearly defined under the Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5). Disregarding these duties can result in fines and liability.

Illinois law takes pet bites very seriously. If a pet bites another person, the owner is required to bring the animal to a vet within 24 hours for examination to ensure the animal is not a risk to others. Owners may be required to have the animal spayed, neutered, microchipped, or evaluated by a behaviorist if aggressive nature continues. In some cases, an owner may be required to muzzle their dog in public.

As a pet owner, it is important to stay aware of these laws for the protection of yourself and others. Failing to comply with the Illinois Animal Control Act can open you up to liability if your pet injures another person, and/or you can potentially lose ownership.

If you have been injured by someone else’s pet, please contact our law firm at 312-529-5500.