Best Dog Bite Attorneys in Springfield

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Springfield, Massachusetts?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Springfield Police Department is (413) 787-6300.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Springfield, Massachusetts?

  You can obtain a copy of a police report by getting in touch with the record access officer at (413) 787-6085 or submitting an in-person request at 36 Court St., Room 210, Springfield, MA 01103. You can also use the Public Records Portal of the Springfield Police Department: https://springfieldma.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(bzw1uhb1ovo0mgnjcyzyjtkd))/supporthome.aspx

• Are there any exemptions from the rabies vaccination requirement for dogs in Springfield?

  Yes. Exemptions from the rabies vaccination requirement for dogs in Springfield are possible through the licensing authority for specific situations, such as when a pet is declared exempt due to medical reasons stated in a veterinarian's certificate. Pets in transit or temporarily brought into town for display or exhibition purposes may also be exempted.

• Is there a hearing process to determine if a dog is dangerous or a nuisance in Springfield?

  Yes. In Springfield, there is a hearing process in place for these situations. When a dog's behavior raises concerns, a hearing before a special hearing committee is conducted to assess whether the dog should be classified as vicious or a nuisance. A dog is considered dangerous if it bites or hurts a person or another animal without being provoked. It's also considered dangerous if it acts aggressively by chasing or approaching someone as if it's going to attack.

• What are the consequences if a dog owner in Springfield fails to obtain an annual dog license by May 31?

  If a dog owner in Springfield fails to obtain an annual dog license by May 31, a late fee of $5.00 per month will be added alongside the license fee during the application process. This late fee will continue to be applied on the first of every subsequent month. It's important to note that May 31 is the last day to license a dog in the city without incurring a late fee each year.

• Will a dog owner in Springfield be held liable if a child provokes their dog to attack?

  In Springfield, if a person is trespassing or provoking a dog to attack, the dog owner might not be held responsible, except in cases involving children under seven years old. However, when young adolescents are injured, their behavior towards the dog isn't considered. This implies that even if they agitate or provoke a dog, the pet owner remains responsible for controlling the dog's actions.

• What is the mandated holding period of Animal Control for stray dogs in Springfield?

  According to Massachusetts law, all stray dogs in Springfield and the rest of the state must be held for a minimum of seven days to allow potential owners a chance to claim them. Unclaimed animals, after the holding period, undergo evaluations to assess their health and temperament. This process helps determine if they are suitable for adoption.