The ordinance defines provocation as a person older than seven inflicting or attempting to inflict physical pain on an animal.

City officials said they wanted the ordinance to protect the public as well as the rights of pet owners.

"Not many towns have definitions of provocation," City Attorney Nathan Nickolaus said. "We really wanted to make that clearer."

Pet owners with vicious animals also take on additional responsibilities. They must obtain at least $100,000 in liability insurance for the animal.

"Any animal can be a risk," Nickolaus said. "That's something everyone should be aware of."

Jefferson City resident Jamie Rasmussen has three large dogs at her home. She said she supports the proposed measure because it is a compromise between a pet's disposition and its owner's responsibility.

"Sometimes their actions are not their fault," Rasmussen said. "They're not as intelligent as we are."

However, Rasmussen said she doesn't expect her dogs to fall under the category of 'vicious animal' any time soon. The only thing they try to bite is the house cat.

"They're always happy to see you and they're great companions," Rasmussen said.

The city council has not yet voted on the measure, but Nickolaus said he expects to have the support of city council members.