If you were following our Cutest Pet contest on Facebook (winner to be featured in the May issue), you probably came to the conclusion that we love animals around here, but we really, really love dogs. And since, with the thaw in the weather, we are likely to see much more of our canine residents around town, we thought it would be a good idea to recap the Rover Rules.

The state dog law mandates that owners have control over their dogs at all times. That can be by leash or by voice control, but leashes are the recommended practice. The only Mt. Lebanon parks where dogs are permitted are Bird, Robb Hollow and Twin Hills Trails parks. In the parks, the dogs must be on leashes.

Owners who do not control their dogs can be fined from $100 to $500 for first offense, and up to $1,000 for subsequent offenses. South Hills Animal Control officers are tasked with enforcing most calls for dogs at large. Police officers may also issue citations. You can reach South Hills Animal Control by calling 412-279-6911, or by calling 911. Both numbers will connect you with Allegheny County 911, which is responsible for dispatching Animal Control.

Off-leash options can be found in South Park, Carnegie, Mingo Creek County Park in Washington County, Frick Park in Pittsburgh and Hartwood Acres in the North Hills. Answers to the question “Who’s a good boy?” must be reached independently.