OMAHA, Neb. -- Omaha's new dangerous dog ordinance requires that liability insurance be carried for the life of the dog. But some dog owners who want to comply can't find the coverage.

"I lost sleep for many nights over it, worrying about insurance," said Angel Petty, who owns a 3-year-old American Pitbull Terrier.

The terrier, Earl, is classified as a dangerous dog under the new ordinance. Petty had to switch from an insurance company she had been with for 20 years to get coverage for Earl.

Petty found a company that would cover the dog, as long as Earl had no prior records of vicious acts or biting.

Lisa Powell with Powell Insurance said coverage for a dog is typically included in the homeowner's policy. But not all agencies cover dangerous dogs.

American Family Insurance and All State don't offer the coverage, even in the absence of recorded vicious behavior.

Some pet owners can find specialized policies specifically for dogs, but they should be prepared to pay more.

The Nebraska Humane Society has posted tips on its Web site to help dog owners with insurance issues.