The Law on Pit Bulls in Jefferson Parish

Many communities have enacted breed-specific legislation as a way to combat what they deem a characteristic flaw in a type of dog such as the pit bull. Some municipalities have tried to ban pit bull ownership within their borders. Officials in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, took a different tack with the rules.

  1. Protection Not Persecution

    • In Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, laws dog fighting ring promoters, participants and observers may be charged with a misdemeanor. The local law also prohibits the intent to make dogs vicious through means of tormenting, badgering or baiting.

    Licensing

    • All dog owners in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, are required to buy a license for their animals. The fees help fund shelter projects and defer animal care costs. Low-cost vaccination and spay/neuter clinics are possible in part because of license revenue. The cost, as of 2011, is $15 for unaltered dogs; $10 for altered dogs; and $5 for license replacements.

    Rabies Vaccination

    • Rabies is an easily transmitted viral disease of the brain that affects dogs, people and other warm-blooded animals. Rabies vaccinations for all dogs are legally mandated in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana.

    Breed-Specific Legislation

    • At the time of publication, seven Louisiana communities have breed-specific laws on the books, according to a DogsBite web site.