Reported by: Scott UnesPhotographer: Jeremy GloverWeb produced by: Megan WasmundThe number of pit bulls in the city of Newport has increased, and with it, the number of pit bull attacks.
Newport is trying to make owners more responsible for their pets.
A new ordinance says that pit bull owners, or any other dog deemed "vicious" by the ordinance, must get that dog micro-chipped.
The ordinance will require that owners get a $100,000 insurance policy on that dog as a part of their renter's or homeowners insurance. The insurance would pay for part or all of any damages caused by an attack.
Along with pit bulls, any dog with a record of attacking a person or animal must be chipped and insured.
Newport City Solicitor, Mike Schulkens says, "It's not a breed issue, and it's not the type of dog that it is at all. It's just that, it's vicious animals. And I say somewhat facetiously in city meetings, if you've got the meanest beagle in town, this ordinance applies."
Enforcement of this ordinance will be progressive.
The city will give warnings and citations first, and seize dogs with a record of attacks. Owners would then have to get the insurance to get their dog back.
The city of Covington has had a similar law for several years.
Several cities including Cincinnati, Southgate, Ludlow, Erlanger, and Fort Thomas currently have bans on pit bulls.
