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Lodi Considering Vicious Dog Law That Would Require Muzzles, Owners To Carry Insurance

LODI (CBS13) — Lodi says it's getting more complaints about vicious dogs, and now city leaders hope to do something about it.

The City Council will consider a new law after two violent dog-on-dog attacks, one that claimed the life of a dog.

It's something that LeDawn Bertsch will never forget. Three large dogs attacked her dog and bit her husband at a nearby dog park. The scars are still visible on her dog, Sophie.

"Since then, we don't want to go to the parks, because we are too afraid now," she said. "We're afraid that's going to happen again. And I for sure won't go by myself."

Under the proposal, vicious dogs would have to be leashed and muzzled in public. Owners would also be required to carry $100,000 in liability insurance and could face fines and jail time if their dog attacks.

David Maggetti brings his golden retriever to the dog park every day and says there can be dog fights.

"Strong leash or muzzle as you said, or insurance on a vicious dog, absolutely 100 percent important," he said.

Bertsch says it's not just about the animals.

"I mean, what if a small child was there? what if she got attacked?" she said. "We took her there and she got attacked."

The City Council could vote on the new law as soon as the July 16 meeting.

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