Owning a pet is a responsibility. Dog owners in Texas must abide by certain laws to maintain control over their pets and ensure public safety. This includes leash restraint laws. Although Texas does not have a statewide leash requirement, municipalities such as San Antonio have their own leash laws that pet owners must follow. A dog bite lawyer in San Antonio can help you navigate the complexities of a dog bite claim.
San Antonio’s Leash Laws
Most cities in Texas have their own specific leash laws that require dogs to be restrained while in public places. In San Antonio, Municode Chapter 5 – Article I – Section 5-19 states: “An animal owner or keeper shall not walk an animal without a leash restraint.” When the animal is not on a leash, it must be confined to the owner’s property at all times.
Animal Care officers have the legal authority to enter unenclosed front yards on private property to impound unrestrained animals. There are exceptions in place for designated off-leash areas in San Antonio, such as enclosed dog parks, where dogs are free to roam. However, these places have their own set of rules that must be followed by all pet owners.
What Are the Penalties for Breaking San Antonio’s Leash Laws?
If a pet owner knowingly allows his or her dog to run at large or violates one of the other city pet ownership regulations, he or she could face a fine of $100 to $2,000. If it is not the individual’s first offense, the minimum fine is increased to $200. For a third or subsequent offense, the minimum fine is no less than $300.
What to Do if Someone Is Violating the Leash Laws
If you encounter someone in San Antonio who is not using a leash to control a dog, you have the right to report it to the authorities at Animal Care Services. You can contact them by calling 311 or (210) 207-6000. Provide them with details, such as a description of the breed and color of the dog and the name or a description of the pet owner. If you do not see an owner, Animal Care officers may come to the location to try to contain and impound the dog.
You may also wish to speak directly to the pet owner about the issue if you feel comfortable. The individual may not know San Antonio’s leash laws. Approach the situation calmly and respectfully. Do not pet or interact with the dog unless the owner tells you it is okay to do so. Document the violation and take photos for evidence, if possible. If the issue persists, report it to the authorities.
Dog Bite Injuries While a Dog Is Running at Large
It is against the law for dog owners in San Antonio to allow their dogs to “run at large,” or roam public places without a leash or another form of restraint. If a dog bites someone while it is running at large, the victim has the right to pursue financial compensation from the pet owner for related medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Allowing a dog to run at large is proof of negligence, or a pet owner’s failure to exercise ordinary care. This can be enough to file a dog bite injury claim against the pet owner. Proof that the owner was violating municipal leash laws is generally enough to hold the pet owner liable, or legally and financially responsible, for subsequent dog bite injuries. Consult with a injury attorney in San Antonio near you to discuss your ability to file a claim. Contact us today.