“Trapped” by Barking Dog? Kittle Road Call Highlights What Owners Are — and Aren’t — Responsible For

WHEELERSBURG, OH — A tense situation on Kittle Road sparked another conversation about what dog owners can — and can’t — do when it comes to keeping pets loose on their own property. Scioto County Sheriff’s deputies were called after a woman reported she was walking her dog when another dog approached her, leaving her too afraid to move. According to dispatch notes, the caller repeatedly demanded an immediate deputy response, saying she felt trapped during the encounter. When deputies arrived, however, they determined the dog was still within its own yard, off leash and barking, but not actively attacking anyone. The dog’s owner came outside and took the animal back into the house. Deputies noted that neither the caller nor her dog were bitten or physically attacked. ⚖️ Can Dogs Be Loose on Their Own Property? In Ohio, dogs generally can be off leash on their owner’s property. But that does not mean owners are free from responsibility. If a dog: Leaves the property Charges or bites someone Prevents people from safely using public areas Or attacks another animal the owner can still face: Citations Dangerous dog designations Civil liability Or criminal charges under Avery’s Law 📬 What About Postal Carriers or Utility Workers? The law becomes especially important when someone has a legal reason to approach a property. Examples include: Mail carriers Delivery drivers Utility workers Emergency responders Even if a dog is technically “on its own property,” owners may still be liable if the animal bites or attacks someone lawfully there. That’s why many experts recommend: Secure fencing Leashes or tethers Training and supervision Warning signage when appropriate ❗ Fear Matters Too Even when no bite occurs, situations like this can still create real fear. Residents walking pets, children riding bikes, or seniors out for exercise may not know whether a barking or charging dog intends to attack. And in many cases, by the time officers arrive, the situation has already calmed down — leaving frustration on both sides. 🧭 A Growing Issue Across the County As Scioto County continues dealing with: Loose dog complaints Shelter overcrowding Increased enforcement under Avery’s Law calls involving dogs “just barking in their own yard” are increasingly becoming gray-area disputes between neighbors. But officials say the takeaway is simple: You may have the right to keep your dog loose on your property — but you’re still responsible for what happens if that dog scares, injures, or leaves that property.

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