The Worthington Town Marshal's Office is reminding residents to keep dogs properly restrained and protected from the summer heat following an increase in reports of dogs running loose throughout the community.

Town Marshal Jeremy M. Brinkman said the department has recently seen a significant rise in dogs roaming at large, creating safety concerns for the animals, motorists, and residents.

Under Indiana law, dog owners are prohibited from allowing their dogs to stray beyond their property unless the animals are under the reasonable control of a person. Brinkman said owners who allow their dogs to roam freely may be subject to citations and fines.

The marshal encouraged residents to inspect fences and gates for security and to keep dogs leashed whenever they are off their property.

Brinkman also reminded pet owners of their responsibility to provide proper care during periods of extreme heat. Indiana law considers it animal neglect to leave a dog exposed to excessive heat without adequate shelter, shade and access to fresh drinking water.

"A standard doghouse in direct sunlight can act like an oven,” Brinkman said, “Outdoor dogs must have access to a secondary overhead shade source, such as trees or a tarp, and a constant supply of fresh, cool water.”

He also noted that recent changes to Indiana law have increased penalties for certain acts of animal neglect and cruelty, with some offenses now carrying felony-level penalties.

The marshal encouraged pet owners to place identification tags on their dogs' collars to help officers quickly reunite lost pets with their families if they become loose.

"Our goal is not to hand out citations, but to work together as a community to keep our town safe and our animals healthy," Brinkman said.

Residents who observe a stray dog or an animal in severe distress are encouraged to contact the Worthington Town Marshal's Office at (812) 875-2424, Ext. 6, or call 911.