BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Over the next two weeks, officials from the Crawford County Dog Warden announced they will be sharing significant updates concerning the state’s dog laws under Ohio Revised Code chapter 955.
Dog owners are encouraged to watch for daily online posts highlighting these changes, which are expected to impact all pet owners throughout the state. For inquiries, residents can contact the Crawford County Dog Warden’s office at (419) 562-4993.
The new legislation, Senate Bill 247, known as Avery’s Law, will come into effect on March 20, 2026. This law aims to restructure and clarify the definitions and responsibilities concerning dog ownership in Ohio.
One of the first key changes includes an update to Section 955.01, which outlines essential definitions relevant to the revised regulations. The definitions provided include:
– Vicious Dog: A dog designated as such under section 955.23 of the Revised Code or one that has previously been proved to engage in a vicious dog act, as determined by a court.
– Dangerous Dog: Similarly defined as a dog designated under section 955.23 or one previously proven to engage in a dangerous dog act by a court.
– Nuisance Dog: Defined as a dog that has been designated under section 955.23 or that has previously engaged in a nuisance dog act, based on court evidence.
Additionally, the law outlines the meanings of “Nuisance dog act,” “Dangerous dog act,” and “Vicious dog act,” and provides a definition for a Police Dog, which refers to a dog trained to assist law enforcement officers.
The term Dog Kennel or Kennel is also defined under the new law as an establishment maintaining adult dogs for breeding purposes, specifying the conditions under which these establishments operate.
These updates represent a comprehensive effort to enhance clarity and safety in dog ownership across Ohio. Pet owners are urged to stay informed about these critical changes as the effective date approaches.