A state law governs the licensing and identification of dangerous dogs and wild animals. In response to this law, Westchester County has developed a Dangerous Dog Registry.
What is the Westchester County dangerous dog registry?
It is a registry of all dogs in Westchester County that have been classified as “dangerous” under New York State Law.
Why has this registry been created?
New York State Law requires that all dangerous dogs be reported to the municipality where the dog resides or is harbored.
How does a dog get added to the registry?
Only dogs that have been deemed “dangerous” by a judge as defined in section 209-cc of the General Municipal Law, following a hearing, will be included in this registry. The owners of the dog is required to report the dog to their local municipal clerk’s office.
How can I find out which dogs in my community are considered dangerous?
Residents can find the registry at the Westchester County Department of Health website at www.westchestergov.com/health. Go to the Dangerous Dogs page, which can be found through the A-Z listing.
The registry includes the dog’s residence, description, and the date on which the dog was deemed dangerous by a judge.
How can I report a dangerous dog?
If you believe a dog or any other animal in your neighborhood is dangerous, please contact your local city or town hall or your local police department. Your report is the first step toward having an animal declared dangerous, but you cannot add a dog to the registry yourself.
Where can I get more information?
Residents may contact the Westchester County Department of Health at (914) 813-5000 for information on the registry. For questions on reporting and enforcement, residents should call their local police department.