Nephi reports increase in dog bites in 2025, urges pet owners to be responsible

NEPHI, Utah (ABC4) — Nephi City Police Department announced that they’ve seen an increase in dog bites and pet-related incidents this year and is urging pet owners to be responsible.

Nephi City Police Department (NCPD) says that they’ve recorded 22 reports of dog bites so far in 2025, an increase compared to total-year reports from previous years. In 2024, they only recorded 20 dog bite incidents and in 2023, they only had 11 dog bite incidents.

Additionally, NCPD says, “We’ve received numerous concerns from residents who feel unsafe walking around town.” They are urging dog owners to be aware of their pets and ensure that their dog is kept securely, by being kept on a leash or in a fenced yard when outside.

While city ordinances vary, most areas have laws on pets and the penalties for when a pet attacks and/or injures another person. Under Nephi City’s legal code, dog owners can be fined up to $250 for their first offense and is liable for damages to a person or to the owner of an animal injured by their dog.

NCPD also says, “We love our pets and our community. Let’s work together to keep both safe.”