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Virginia H.B. 2381 Amends Current Dangerous Dog Law - National Humane Education Society

Paws Up!

To the Virginia General Assembly for unanimously passing House Bill 2381 that would give dogs second chances after minor bites.

Any dog can bite out of extreme fear, pain, or in defense of people and property to which the dog is attached. Many states have passed dangerous dog laws due to an increased number of dog attacks. The penalties vary by state, but in Virginia, if a dog bites a person or another animal, the owner is required to appear in court and make a case for why his or her dog should not be listed on a dangerous dog registry. However, according to a recent news article, Virginia Delegate Mike Farris (R-59th District) is sponsoring House Bill 2381. This bill would grant animal control officers discretion to decide whether a dog poses a danger to society after a minor bite has occurred. While some dogs can live an entire lifetime without biting, many dogs who bite are not “bad dogs” inclined to biting indiscriminately — but rather, are dogs who have reacted due to a major stressor. For example, some dogs with mild temperaments have bitten visitors they mistake as nighttime intruders or in response to to preventable situational triggers such as noise or sudden movements.  The General Assembly approved the measure unanimously. H.B. 2381 is waiting for Governor Terry McAuliffe’s approval.

To learn more about why breed bans are not effective, please download our free brochure.

Take Action: Virginia residents, contact Governor Terry McAuliffe to show your support for H.B. 2381.  

 

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One response to “Virginia H.B. 2381 Amends Current Dangerous Dog Law”

  1. Anthony Peterson says:

    My dogs containment was compromised by law enforcement. Though it was accidental it resulted in a bit and subsequent vicious dog charge later reduced to dangerous dog. All my actions complied to control of animal laws yet Roanoke District Court determined I was to be responsible.

    Another recent incident happened when LEO responded to a domestic in which a family member trespassed and destroyed property stressing my dog. When LEO arrived family member aggravated and escalated verbal contact. Dog can be heard barking and growling in frustration. As I attempted entry into home my dog proceeded towards family member but approached LEO first as I jumped on my dog resulting in an undetermined injury or a bit. Currently a pending case. Each time my dog in his typical response defended me yet the court doesnt consider this as factual and relevant. Dog owners should not be responsible for the actions of others…..contributory injury.

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