Key Changes to Animal Protection Laws
The most notable change in the ordinance is the inclusion of animal-to-animal incidents. Previously, Flower Mound Animal Services could only intervene when a dog caused serious bodily injury to a person. The expanded scope now encompasses injuries to both domestic pets and livestock, providing additional legal protection for animal owners.
Reporting Dangerous Dogs in Flower Mound
Under the updated regulations, residents can now report incidents involving dangerous dogs that harm other animals. This change empowers pet and livestock owners to take action when their animals are threatened or injured by aggressive dogs, creating a more comprehensive safety network for the community.
Texas Animal Control Laws and Local Enforcement
The amended ordinance aligns with broader Texas animal control laws while addressing specific local needs in Flower Mound. Animal Services can now respond more effectively to incidents involving:
- Attacks on domestic pets
- Threats to livestock
- Aggressive behavior towards other animals
- Repeat incidents involving the same dog
Dog Owner Liability and Responsibilities
The ordinance update places additional responsibility on dog owners to prevent their pets from causing harm to other animals. This includes maintaining proper containment, using appropriate restraints when in public, and ensuring their dogs are properly trained and supervised.
Urban Livestock Safety Measures
With the growing trend of urban farming and backyard livestock, the ordinance provides crucial protection for:
- Backyard chickens
- Small livestock
- Farm animals within town limits
- Pet animals in yards or public spaces
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my pet or livestock is attacked by a dog in Flower Mound?
If your animal is attacked, immediately ensure your pet's safety and contact Flower Mound Animal Services to report the incident. Document the attack with photos if possible, gather witness information, and seek veterinary care for your injured animal. Keep all medical records and documentation of the incident.
Can Flower Mound Animal Control take action if a dog injures another animal?
Yes, under the newly amended ordinance, Animal Control can now investigate and take action when a dog causes serious bodily injury to other animals. This is a significant change from the previous ordinance that only covered human injuries.
How do I report a dangerous dog incident in Flower Mound?
Contact Flower Mound Animal Services directly to file a report about dangerous dog incidents. Provide as much detail as possible, including the date, time, and location of the incident, description of the dangerous dog, and any evidence of injuries to your animal. Follow-up documentation may be required to support the investigation.
Protecting the Community's Animals
This ordinance update represents a significant step forward in protecting all animals within the Flower Mound community. By expanding the scope of dangerous dog regulations, the town has created a more comprehensive framework for addressing animal safety concerns and preventing future incidents.
Pet owners and livestock keepers can now feel more secure knowing there are legal protections in place for their animals. The success of this ordinance will depend on community awareness and participation in reporting dangerous incidents, along with responsible pet ownership practices throughout Flower Mound.
