Understanding the Consequences of Dog Bites
In New York, pet owner regulations require owners to ensure their animals never pose a threat to others. In New York, pet owner regulations require owners to ensure their animals never pose a threat to others. As a result, these rules—covering both state-level statutes and local laws—safeguard public safety and effectively prevent harm.
Complying with Key Statutes and Regulations
Leash Laws in New York:
Many municipalities enforce leash laws that require owners to keep their dogs leashed in public spaces. Consequently, owners who violate these laws risk liability if their unleashed dog injures someone.
Control and Confinement:
Pet owners must take reasonable measures to confine their animals and prevent them from escaping or attacking passersby. By doing so, they reduce the chances of dangerous encounters.
Dangerous Dogs (Section 123):
Individuals or authorities can file complaints against dogs that attack or threaten others. If a judge deems a dog “dangerous,” the owner may face strict requirements—such as neutering, confinement, muzzle use, additional insurance coverage, or training—and may be ordered to pay for damages. In severe cases, the court may order euthanasia. Therefore, owners who fail to control dangerous dogs may face civil penalties, fines, or criminal charges, reinforcing the serious legal consequences of negligent pet ownership.
Night Quarantine (Section 121):
Municipalities may mandate that all dogs remain securely confined from sunset until one hour after sunrise. As a result, authorities may seize or destroy any dog found outside without proper control during this time, emphasizing the importance of following local quarantine orders.
Offenses Against Service Animals and Handlers (Section 123-B):
This provision protects service animals and their handlers from harm. It clearly defines service animals and their handlers while clarifying that these animals assist individuals with disabilities. Consequently, owners who recklessly allow their animal to interfere with, injure, or kill a service animal—thus endangering the handler—face civil penalties or, if authorities have already deemed the offending animal dangerous, possible fines and imprisonment. Moreover, handlers may also pursue civil remedies to recover costs related to medical, veterinary, or other expenses stemming from the loss or incapacitation of their service animal.
Vaccination Requirements:
State law requires all dogs to receive rabies vaccinations. If owners fail to comply, they endanger public health and increase their liability should an attack occur.
Strict Liability in New York: Holding Owners Fully Accountable for Dangerous Dog Attacks
Strict Liability for Injuries:
If an owner knows or should know their dog is dangerous, New York law imposes strict liability for injuries caused by that dog. In other words, this standard places full responsibility on the owner to prevent incidents.
Local Laws and Ordinances
While Section 121 addresses dangerous dogs at the state level, Section 122 allows municipalities to enact their own local laws regarding dog ownership and control, as long as they do not conflict with state regulations on rabies vaccination or euthanasia. Towns, cities, and villages can implement specific rules—such as leash requirements, breed restrictions, or licensing protocols—and enforce these regulations through fines, penalties, and other means.
SECTION 122: Local Laws or Ordinances
Agriculture & Markets (AGM) CHAPTER 69, ARTICLE 7
§ 122. Local laws or ordinances.
- Any municipality may enact a local law or ordinance upon the keeping or running at large of dogs and the seizure thereof, provided no municipality shall vary, modify, enlarge or restrict the provisions of this article relating to rabies vaccination and euthanization.
- Such local law or ordinance may:
(a) Impose penalties for violation of such restrictions, recoverable in a civil action in the name of the municipality;
(b) Provide for enforcement by fine or imprisonment for any such violation; or
(c) Provide for the issuance of an appearance ticket or a uniform appearance ticket, as provided in section one hundred thirteen of this article, by any authorized dog control officer, peace officer, or police officer for any such violation.
This means that towns, cities, and villages can implement specific rules—such as leash requirements, restrictions on certain breeds, or additional licensing protocols—and enforce these regulations through fines, penalties, or other measures
Consulting an Attorney
Pet owner regulations in New York require owners to take proactive steps to prevent harm. Failing to meet these responsibilities can lead to serious legal consequences. Understanding state and local laws is crucial for protecting your rights and the rights of those affected by irresponsible pet ownership.
If you need help interpreting or navigating New York’s dog laws, MidHudson Injury Law can provide legal guidance and representation. Contact us today to ensure you fully understand your obligations and rights.