HB 4054
WV code §19-20-20 apply to all animals, not just dogs
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill amends West Virginia law to broaden the definition of a "vicious pet" to include all animals, not just dogs. Currently, the law primarily focuses on dogs considered dangerous. The bill allows humane officers to authorize the killing of any animal determined to be vicious, dangerous, or prone to biting or attacking others. This change aims to provide greater protection against animal attacks across a wider range of pets.
Key provisions
- Expands the definition of ‘vicious pet’ to include all animals.
- Allows humane officers to authorize the killing of animals deemed vicious.
- Provides a process for a circuit court or magistrate to authorize the killing based on proof of viciousness.
Who is affected
- Pet owners
- Humane officers
- Animal shelters
- Animal owners
- Residents of West Virginia
Notable changes
- Previously, the law only applied to dogs.
- The bill removes the restriction that a pet must lack a tag or muzzle to be considered vicious.
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