The Homewood Village Board approved an ordinance on Nov. 11 raising the minimum fine for dogs and cats running at-large. 

The updated fines increase the minimum penalty from $25 to $150 minimum, with the maximum being $750. Homewood Chief of Police Denise McGrath said the change applies to any dog or cat found off its owner’s property without a leash or without being under the direct control of its owner. 

According to McGrath, the police department has seen a steady rise in calls about loose animals in recent years. Such incidents not only frustrate residents but also pose risks, including traffic hazards and potential injuries to people, pets and other wildlife, she said. 

A resident asked the board to consider updating village fines. His wife was bitten by a stray dog. The previous $25 minimum fine had not been updated “for many years” and was no longer considered an effective penalty, the police chief said emphasizing that the intent of the increase is to improve compliance, not to generate additional revenue for the village. 

A regional comparison chart presented to the trustees shows that Homewood’s updated fines are now more consistent with neighboring communities. 

The goal is to promote community safety and reduce the need for animal control resources, McGrath said.