The recent letter from Rosemarie Ciani ("A Dangerous Situation - Jan. 31) questioned the response of the Town of North Hempstead to a dangerous dog in Manhasset. The regulation of dangerous dogs is controlled by New York State, through Section 121 of the Agriculture and Markets Law.

After looking into the situation referred to by Ms. Ciani, I found that upon receipt of a complaint, the town's dog control officer investigated and that the dog at issue has been the subject of legal action. As a result, its owners are under legal restrictions requiring specific confinement of the dog.

The owners are required to keep the dog confined in an enclosed and locked pen. Additionally, the owners must make sure that it is securely chained, muzzled and, under the physical restraint of a responsible person when the dog is in the presence of someone other than the licensed owner and/or the dog is outside of the enclosure for brief periods.

If any of these conditions are violated, any dog control officer, keeper of the peace, or police officer is authorized to destroy the dog on or off the premises.

Should any of your readers experience a problem with a dangerous dog, the town's animal shelter can be reached at 944-8220. Our staff will investigate the complaint and assist in ever way possible.

Fred L. Pollack

Councilman