SCHENECTADY, N.Y. - A new ordinance passed in the City of Schenectady Monday night requiring some dog owners to have insurance on their pets.
The ordinance applies to owners whose dogs are 20 pounds or over, any breed, and only requires owners to purchase the pet insurance if your dog gets out twice, or bites someone once.
Schenectady Councilwoman Marion Porterfield says she voted against the measure, because the penalty could include jail time.
"Ten days in jail is a bit harsh. But I do understand the reason behind it. It's about prevention. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and this ordinance reflects that," she said.
Anyone caught without pet insurance after an infraction can face a $750 fine, in addition to the possible ten-day jail sentence.
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