Paws Down! To Texas Governor Greg Abbott for vetoing a bill that would have given more protections to dogs.
June 24, 2021
In a disappointing upset, HB 873, the Safe Outdoor Dogs Bill, was vetoed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott after it sailed through the House and Senate this spring. Governor Abbott claimed the bipartisan bill was attempting to unfairly “micro-manage” dog owners by outlawing the use of heavy chains as tethers and requiring dog owners to provide safe shelter for their companions in extreme heat and cold.
According to Abbott, these stipulations are already covered under Texas’ animal cruelty statutes and this bill would have been too extreme. The many law enforcement officials across the state who supported HB 873 disagree, and they are disappointed in Abbott’s unexpected decision. This bill would have given law enforcement and animal control officers more authority to enforce the proper treatment of dogs, especially in extreme weather conditions.
This bill was spurred into motion after several dogs died in extremely cold temperatures because they were left outside during the deep freeze earlier this February.
Take Action: In a perfect world, no dog would be left on a chain to fend for themselves, but until then, we must support legislation that keeps them as safe as possible. Please continue to advocate for safe and humane treatment of animals in your state. Dogs are depending on you to make a difference for them!