Governor Mike DeWine has signed the new Avery’s Law, tightening rules for dangerous dogs. In Ohio, the new law has been approved unanimously in the state legislature; and it demands dog owners to pay $100 a year to register their dog and have a $100,000 liability insurance.
In addition, the law establishes different classification in case of attacks and depending on the gravity of the issue, putting sanctions to owners that don’t control their animals.
What the Avery’s Law covers
The goal is primarily to protect the community. This law is trying to make the current regulations for vicious or dangerous dogs, a little tighter.
It states that, if a dog attacks another dog or a person, even if there’s no serious injuries, it will be classified as a “dangerous dog.” However, if it kills or seriously injures a person, it will be consider a “vicious dog.”
If an accident is reported, the owner of that dog will have to pay $100 every year for registry and keeping an insurance of $100,000.
In the case of a second attack from a “dangerous” or “vicious” dog, the dog warden can seize it and possibly sacrifice it.
There are also more serious and lega consequences for the owners: A dangerous dog’s attack will be considered a four-degree misdemeanor; but if the attack comes from a vicious dog, it’s a fourth-degree felony with at least six months in prison.
“The current law has not been touched in decades” and “It’s time to bring these laws up to standard, to protect children like Avery and others in our community.” Said the state Representative Meredith Lawson-Rowe.
The name behind the Law
Avery Russell was 11 years old when she was brutally attacked by two Pitbulls while she was on a playdate. She had to spent a moth in a hospital after the dogs ripped big part of her face off with bites.
“Anyone can see I’m not the same girl I used to be” and “I’ve already been told by my doctors that uphill battle I will have to endure for many years to come. But I think Avery 2.0 is turning out to be pretty awesome.” Little Avery said to the tribunal.
Stephanie Ayers, the dogs owner, had to pay $450 in fines and will serve four days in prison. However, the Russell family didn’t agree at all with this sentence, and pushed and boosted their defence for the new law.
“I think it’s a complete and utter joke, honestly” and “Four days? And she gets to just choose when to serve them? She still hasn’t shown any remorse.” Drew Russel, Avery’s mom said.
What happened with the dogs that attacked Avery? One of them was shot down at the moment of the attack, and the other one will be handed over to animal control and sacrificed when the judge confirms that there are no pending legal problems.
A Law looking to protect communities, without blaming all dogs
This new law affects directly the owners with the anual payment of $100 and the insurance; but let’s not forget, that this is only mandatory if there is a first attack. If your dog behaves correctly—no matter the breed—you won’t have to face any fees.
How to avoid paying for the anual registry? Make sure your dog is not violent, respect orders, and behave well around people, especially if they are not leashed.
Little Avery’s nightmare was a call for a change, and people have listened. Although the idea is to avoid any incident whatsoever; what the new rule is looking for, is prevention, and justice—that’s more adapted to today’s reality—in case something do happens.