Section 14 of Chapter 115 of the Laws of Belize gives a magistrate authority to order the destruction of a dog deemed vicious or savage, and to fine the owner. An “owner” includes any person in whose custody, charge, or possession a dog is found.

Section 14 also gives a magistrate authority to order an owner to keep a dog under proper control if it is likely to spread disease, bark persistently, or be a nuisance.

Section 6 of Chapter 85 provides for fines or civil action against anyone who beats, ill-treats, overdrives, overloads, or tortures any animal — including failure to properly feed, water, or provide medical care.

If you know of a vicious dog or witness animal ill-treatment or abuse, contact the Seine Bight or Placencia police immediately and file a formal complaint.

Also contact PHS by email (info@placenciahumanesociety.org), Facebook, WhatsApp, or phone (613-7387).