For countless families, dogs are not canines as much as they are family members. Couples who decided not to have children yet have dogs often refer to their beloved pets as their kids. However, there are times when “offspring” act out and bite someone.
Texas statutes covering dog bites and dangerous breeds
The Texas Health and Safety Code has dog attack statutes. Canine attacks are placed in two categories. Those include bodily injury that results in pain and serious bodily injury, including severe wounds from bites or more serious ripping and tearing of muscle that requires treatment from a medical professional, leading to hospitalization.
Texas’ “one-bite” law contains a dangerous dog statute, limiting the animal to a single bite and attack. However, it does account for the owner’s negligence, including walking the dog without a leash or failing to contain the animal on their property.
Certain breeds are primarily responsible for potentially deadly bites and maulings. Should an attack occur within Texas, the animal is marked, and the owner is put on notice. In some scenarios, owners are encouraged to keep the animal tied up or surrounded by a fence.
However, the Lonestar state prohibits municipalities from enacting bans against specific breeds.
Insurance company standards
Many homeowner insurance companies have different standards, rejecting applications for dangerous dogs – specifically Pitbulls and Rottweilers – with a vicious history. Those who own dogs considered dangerous must keep the dog contained behind a fence. Should the dog get away from the owner or the property, euthanizing the animal is a strong possibility.
Pet ownership has been shown to be beneficial to the well-being of their human owners. Additionally, emotional support animals continue to grow in their prominence. However, a certain category of canines can create catastrophe that results in severe physical and emotional trauma.