MINNEAPOLIS -- An interactive map on the City of Minneapolis' website pinpoints dogs within the city limits that have been declared "dangerous."
The website also lists the full names of the owners and their home address.
Dogs listed on the website are pets that "have had an animal-to-animal bite or incident or an animal-to-human bite or incident," according to the website.
"In order to keep our residents safe, we post pictures of these animals and their addresses," the website states.
The map shows photos of each dog, the dog's name, breed and the reason for declaration -- everything from "killed a cat" to "muzzle violations" and bites to humans or other dogs.
According to the city's website, animals declared dangerous by the city must be sterilized, have a clear, visible sign indicating the animal on the property is dangerous in the front and rear of its home and must have a current insurance bond of at least $300,000 to cover any personal injuries inflicted by the animal.
"Destruct orders" are issued for the "most serious incidents" or for noncompliance with dangerous animal requirements.
"Well, it is a public safety purpose," said Connie Bourque, Minneapolis Animal Care and Control. "If you live in a neighborhood, you have a visual that lets you know where animals that have had incidents in the past, who have been aggressive in the past. You have a sense of where you would maybe be more cautious based on the fact that you can see that information right on the website."
"I'm sure that it is a good idea for some people who are concerned about dogs," said Siri Hustad, dog owner, "and do not take good care of their dogs."
Hustad is the owner of Isabel, a bull terrier declared dangerous for attacking another dog. That dog was injured, and required veterinary care, but has recovered.
"It was inappropriate on our behalf to have had her next store," said Hustad. "She jumped a fence when we were all talking and she ran after a dog. That is our responsibility."
Hustad and her husband have taken in two "rescue" dogs, including Isabel. It is possible that Hustad's neighbors are not aware of the "dangerous" dog declaration, since she does not have the required signs on the house.
"We were never given one," insisted Hustad. "I have followed up with all of the times that I needed to take care of our paperwork and they said they would send it out to me. I went back a week later. They said they needed to print more. We have never been given one and that was almost a year ago."
Hustad said Isabel does have the required colorful "dangerous dog" tag on her collar. When out, Isabel is controlled with the required 3-foot leash.
"Yup," said Hustad. "Does Isabel go for a walk with a muzzle? Yup. Do we have an 8 foot fence around our backyard? Yup."
She said having her address on the website has not created any problems for the Hustads. That was echoed by Connie Bourque at Animal Control.
"I have not experienced anything similar to that," said Bourque. "What we have experienced is neighbors who perhaps have seen a dog that is known to be 'declared' not following ordinances."
