Dog owners are required to keep their dog under their immediate control any time the dog is taken off their property (Section 6-25). In order for an Animal Welfare Officer (AWO) to issue a summons, the AWO must directly observe a violation. For violations that occur outside of an officer's presence, the Animal Welfare Division may send a letter to the animal owner's residence, or send an officer to speak with the resident. Citizens may also enforce the law by contacting the Magistrate's Office to have a summons written for which the pet owner may receive a fine. For information, call the Magistrate's Office at 757-926-8475.