What constitutes a vicious dog varies by both state and local laws and ordinances. For the general public, and for dog owners in particular, learning more about the specific vicious dog laws in effect where you live and about your rights and responsibilities, is essential for the safety of everyone.
Vicious Dog Definition
So what is a vicious dog? Each state has their own specific criteria, but in general, a vicious dog is defined as an animal that has been known to harm and/or pose a danger to people in the community. Some breeds of dog are considered to be more vicious than others, i.e., Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers and pit bulls. But any dog that has injured a person can be placed on the vicious dog list if a formal complaint is submitted to an animal control officer and a subsequent hearing determines that the dog is in fact dangerous.
Dangerous Or Vicious Dog Laws By State
There are several states that have dangerous or vicious dog laws. These include, but are not limited to, California, Hawaii, West Virginia, Virginia, Illinois, Ohio, North Carolina, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Washington, Georgia and Florida. In all, 32 states have some kind of law in place. States that do not have specific dangerous dog laws do have laws that make the keeping of vicious dogs illegal. These laws are often vague in their definition of what actually constitutes a vicious dog, however, and the interpretation and determination is often solely at the discretion of the judge.
Pet Owner's Rights And Responsibilities
If you own a dog, it is your responsibility to keep it from attacking or threatening other people. If your dog does attack or threaten another person, however, and a complaint is filed, you do have the right to appeal. You should know that unless your dog has mauled or killed a person, the chances of you being charged with a crime are very low.
If your dog bites someone, provided that said person is not robbing your house, attacking you or someone else, or doing anything harmful or dangerous to anyone else, it essential that you remain calm. Not only will this help everyone, including your dog to maintain calm, but it will also leave a good impression in the mind of the victim, who now has the right to take you to court for damages. Act quickly and take the person to the hospital if necessary, and offer to pay for the medical bills.
Stopping Dog Attacks Before They Happen
Most people love their dogs and treat them like family members. There are some people who purposely neglect and abuse their dogs in order to make them vicious, and these people create potentially dangerous situations for themselves, their dogs, and every person and dog nearby. As a responsible dog owner, you can help to prevent your dog from biting just by taking the time to socialize and train them, by keeping your dog confined on your property, keeping vaccines current and keeping an eye on them when they are around children.
Protect Yourself And Your Dog
Take time to find out about the vicious dog laws in your city and state and what your rights and responsibilities as a dog owner are. Make sure that you always have a copy of your dog's license, shot record, and other important information at all times. If someone in your neighborhood is deliberately trying to provoke your dog to bite or attack them, or if they are harassing your dog repeatedly, file a complaint promptly.
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