North Carolina city bans pets, other animals from outdoor public events

HICKORY, N.C. -- The City of Hickory is banning pets and other animals from several outdoor events.

The Hickory Daily Record reports the ban on events held on public property passed unanimously last week and includes events like the Hickory Farmers Market and Oktoberfest.

Service animals, police dogs, horse-drawn carriages and other animals for hire are not included in the ban. Event organizers can also sign a waiver to allow pets if they take responsibility for any incidents that occur.

Police Chief Tom Adkins says the new law was needed for safety, both because of possible animal bites and waste that isn't cleaned up.

Adkins says his officers will warn people about the new ordinance before issuing tickets.

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