The City of Atlanta's Municipal Code requires that animals, including dogs, be at heel or on a leash under the owner's control when off the owner's premises and within the confines of the city. This law obligates dog owners to supervise and control their dogs' movements and activities at all times.
Failure to control a dog can be a violation of Atlanta law. A local attorney could use this violation to demonstrate that a dog is “vicious” under the definition provided by Georgia statutes regarding dog bites. This would make the owner liable for damages to the injured person.