BOSTON -- After four claims of electrically charged sidewalks shocking city dogs in recent weeks, Boston is demanding answers from electric company, NSTAR.

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Jorge Quiroga Reports On Hearing

NewsCenter 5's Jorge Quiroga reported that the problem has not just been reported in Boston. A pet owner in Melrose, Mass., claimed their 11-year-old dog was shocked near a light post this past weekend.

Alice Dapman's dog, Danny, was shocked by a sidewalk hot spot.

"He all of a sudden started jumping around and lifting each foot off the ground as it hit the ground, lifting it and jumping around like that. Then he scooted forward about 20 or 30 feet," said Dapman.

A dozen pet owners told similar shocking stories at a Boston City Council meeting with NSTAR officials Monday.

At least three dogs have been shocked by surges of electricity while walking near NSTAR manhole covers, including a dog killed in Charlestown

"Because we spoke out and we are adamant about something having to be done, things are finally getting the attention that they need to get," said pet owner, Jeannette Kresowaty, of Charlestown.

NSTAR said they are greatly concerned but not at fault for the electric hot spots that have zapped Boston dogs this winter.

"To sit here and listen for a better part of an hour and more to these tales certainly brings home the importance of these issue," said NSTAR's Walter Salvi.

On Monday, the company took out a full-page ad in The Boston Globe to defend itself.

The ad read in part, "It is unacceptable when construction crews can damage our system, walk away from a dangerous situation and then assume no responsibility."

NSTAR blames outside contractors and said they will mount a more aggressive campaign to make sure contractors report any damage, but say the city should increase penalties when that damage goes unreported.

"We are stepping up the inspections and testing of manhole in our underground infrastructure," said NSTAR's Philip Andreas.

NSTAR has completed 830 inspections of manholes in the city and found nine problem spots. The company plans to inspect all of the city's 30,000 manhole covers.

Nora Hayes' dog was shocked but survived in Chinatown last week.

"She should be jumping around and she's very much a quieter dog now. Definitely," said Hayes.

If you have concerns about hot spots in your neighborhood, you can contact NSTAR at: (800) 592-2000 or through their Web site.