The leash laws in Houston require dog owners to maintain control over their pets when they are in public spaces. These laws exist to limit the risk of dog attacks. A dog owner who violates leash laws may be liable for injuries and damages caused to innocent bystanders.
Mostyn Law represents clients injured by the negligent or wrongful acts of others with aggressive and experienced advocacy. We understand the challenges our clients face in asserting their legal rights after a personal injury. Our attorneys aim to provide clients with straightforward legal advice so that they can recover the compensation they deserve.
What Are the Leash Laws in Houston?
The city prohibits owners from letting their dog be at large under Houston Ordinance. An owner must have direct physical control over their dog in public areas, such as neighborhoods, sidewalks, streets, parks, or public buildings. This requirement is commonly known as a leash law because most dog owners comply by controlling their pet with a leash around its collar or chest. The leash must be an appropriate length to ensure the owner maintains control over the dog when it is near other people.
Failing to follow Houston’s laws can lead to serious injury, as an off-leash dog can bite an individual or otherwise physically harm them. If you were bitten by a dog, seek immediate medical evaluation and report the accident to law enforcement. Gather information about the dog bite or attack if possible, including details such as:
- The type of dog
- The location of the incident
- The owner’s identity and contact information
- The events leading to the dog bite or attack
You can schedule a free consultation with our team at Mostyn Law at any time after suffering a dog bite injury. You may not know the owner or the dog’s identity immediately following an attack. We can help you investigate a claim based on the attack location and a description of the dog to identify the responsible owner.
Dog Owner Liability for Leash Law Violations
When a dog owner in Houston does not comply with leash laws, they can be held liable for the resulting damages. Based on the severity of your injury and how it affects your life, you may seek compensation for damages such as:
- Medical care costs
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs
- Lost income or diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Emotional distress
- Decreased quality or enjoyment of life
You generally have two years from the date of the dog bite attack to file a claim for personal injury under Texas Code § 16.003. Meeting with our team at Mostyn Law before the filing deadline helps protect your right to pursue a claim against a negligent dog owner. Courts will dismiss claims filed after the deadline, which can prevent you from recovering compensation.
Contact a Houston Dog Bite Attorney About Leash Laws
If you suffered a dog bite because the owner violated the leash laws in Houston, you may be entitled to a claim for your related damages. However, claims against a negligent dog owner can be complex, often involving disputes over fault for the bite. Our team of experienced lawyers can guide you through the process, providing straightforward legal advice and professional service. Contact our office today to schedule a free case consultation.