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dangerous dogs

Dangerous dog laws, including the dog bite law, vary from state to state, with different definitions and outcomes for owners.

In Florida, the dangerous dog laws are governed by Florida Statutes Section 767.12, which defines a dangerous dog as one that has aggressively bitten, attacked, endangered, or inflicted severe injury on a human being on public or private property, has severely injured or killed a domestic animal while off the owner's property, or has been used primarily or in part for the purpose of dog fighting. The law requires owners of dogs deemed dangerous to register the dog with local authorities, securely confine the dog, and post visible warning signs. Additionally, the dog must be permanently identified with a tattoo or microchip. Florida's dog bite law, under Florida Statutes Section 767.04, holds dog owners strictly liable for bites that occur in public places or lawfully in private places, regardless of the dog's former viciousness or the owners' knowledge of such viciousness. However, the owner's liability may be reduced if the victim's negligence contributed to the biting incident. Owners of dogs previously declared dangerous who attack or bite a person may face higher penalties, including criminal charges.

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Understanding Dangerous Animal Laws

Understanding the laws surrounding dangerous dogs and animal ownership is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of both humans and animals.

Animals

dangerous dogs

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Florida State Code

Animals

dangerous dogs

Florida State Code

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