Watch CBS News

Lowell Considers New Pit Bull Rules After Woman Attacked

LOWELL (CBS) -- Dog owners in Lowell may face some new rules after a woman was attacked last week.

City Councilor Rodney Elliott says there's an escalating pit bull problem in the city.

Nicole Hawkins was walking down Church Street last week when she was attacked by a pit bull. A police officer and neighbors had to pry the dog off her arm.

Elliott said there have been multiple attacks in the last year and they have been talking about expanding the city ordinance to require muzzles for pit bulls.

"There are a lot of good pet owners, but we need to protect citizens," he said.

Right now, pit bulls in Lowell only have to be muzzled if they are taken off the owner's property.

At the beginning of the month new rules went into effect in Worcester where pit bulls require additional registration and walking proof that owners are in compliance with a new ordinance.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.