COLERAIN TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WKRC) — In the wake of a vicious dog attack in Colerain Township that left a woman severely injured, there are renewed calls for changes to Ohio’s dog laws.
The dogs involved in the attack will be euthanized after their quarantine period, but only because the owner surrendered them, not due to any state law requirement.
State Representative Kevin Miller is drafting a bill that would mandate the euthanasia of dogs that kill or severely injure someone. Miller said he has received feedback from dog wardens who find current state laws confusing, which complicates the prosecution of cases.
He aims to clarify these laws and ensure that wardens can immediately take dangerous dogs into custody while a judge decides if euthanasia is necessary.
“We’re looking to address the most severe instances where a dog took someone’s life or caused serious injury. That’s what we’re looking to do, and the key is this is an unprovoked attack,” said Miller.
“This does not step on the toes of our local governments. It clarifies what our dog wardens can and should do and empowers them to enforce their own rules,” State Representative Adam Mathews said.
Miller is still finalizing the bill and is looking at what additional penalties dog owners could face with these changes. He plans to introduce the legislation in April.
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