Defining a dangerous dog

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Dozens of dog lobbyists came to the Capitol Monday afternoon to testify against a bill that would put more restrictions on bigger dogs.

The proposed legislation would mandate any dog that lives in a major metropolitan city and weighs more than 40 pounds either be on a leash at all times or in an enclosed area.

"This would be disastrous for show dogs," said Tina Neville, who shows big dog breeds in shows. "Texas would lose dog show competitions if owners were worried about restrictions on their animals when they came to town."

The bill revises the definition of a "vicious" dog to one who physical nature would give it the capability to inflict harm. It also prevents people under 21 years old from owning a dangerous or vicious dog and prohibits those types of dogs from going on the grounds of a primary or secondary school, even if it is on a leash.

It would also make the dog owner responsible if a child under 15 is injured by the animal, even if the child trespasses onto the dog owner's property. Currently, the owner is responsible if the child is under 8 years old.

Rep. Trey Martinez-Fischer, D-San Antonio, said HB 1982 would not label any "noisy" or "big" dog a vicious dog.

"This is a decision that would be made by animal control or the sheriff's department," said Martinez-Fischer. "But, if a pet owner knows that their dog is capable of vicious attacks, we need to be able to regulate that behavior."

Recent Pit Bull Attacks

Two recent pit bull attacks could help Martinez-Fischer pass his bill. On March 31, a 7-month-old boy in San Antonio was killed by two pit bulls in his home when his grandmother left him so she could warm up milk bottles. The dogs also attacked and injured the grandmother.

On March 26, a 2-year-old in Luling was killed when a pit bull, that was supposed to be chained outside of a trailer, attacked and killed the toddler when he came outside.

Still, opponents of the bill said those situations can not be the basis of a bill that would affect thousands of dog owners.

"Those situations happen for one of two reasons," said Jeff Shaver, an owner of 14 rescued Rottweilers that participate in shows. "Either the child is not being supervised or because of loose dogs."

Specific Pit-Bull Legislation

Another bill that is garnering some attention from pit bull owners is HB 925 . The bill, sponsored by Rep. Harold Dutton, would prohibit people 15 and younger from handling a pit bull or pit bull mix without adult supervision.

What do you think about this proposed bill?