If you are a resident of the state of Texas, it is important to be aware of the state’s dog bite laws. Whether you are a dog owner or a dog bite victim, understanding these laws is absolutely crucial. Here, we will explore the different dog bite laws that exist in Texas, what to do after a dog bite, and discuss the legal options you may be able to pursue. 

The “One Bite” Rule

Texas is one of 16 states that follow the one bite rule when it comes to dog bites. This means that if a dog bites another individual for the first time and the owner was unaware that the dog had a violent history or tendencies, the owner will not be liable for the dog bite accident. However, if an owner is aware that their dog is aggressive or has a history of biting, they will likely be held liable for the dog bite. 

10-Day Quarantine

If a dog bites an individual in Texas, the incident must be reported to the Local Rabies Control Authority (LRCA) within your city or county. The LRCA will then investigate the animal bite report, ensure a quarantine period is conducted, and enforce rabies laws. Texas law requires dogs to be either quarantined/confined for 10 days or euthanized if they have bit a human. There are specific guidelines determining if a dog will be quarantined in a Texas Department of State Health Services or veterinary clinic or if the dog is allowed to be confined at home for 10 days. However, the goal of both quarantine and confinement is to be able to monitor the dog and see if there are any warning signs that the dog may have rabies. If it is decided that the dog will be euthanized, the dog’s brain will likely be saved for rabies testing. Rabies testing is a crucial step following a dog bite because if you are bitten by a dog with rabies, there are a myriad of serious symptoms that you may develop. Some of these symptoms include:

• Hyperactivity
• Vomiting
• Sensitivity to light
• Hallucinations
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Seizures
• Hydrophobia
• Insomnia
• Excessive salivation

Rabies Vaccination Requirements in Texas

Texas law requires all dogs to be vaccinated for rabies by four months of age. The vaccinations must be administered by a licensed veterinarian or with supervision of a veterinarian. When traveling, you will need to have a rabies vaccination certificate to certify that your dog has been vaccinated. It is important to note that dogs are not considered to be fully vaccinated until at least 30 days have passed since the first vaccination. Some local jurisdictions may also have more stringent requirements regarding vaccination intervals and requirements. 

Pursuing Legal Action

If you have been bitten by a dog in Texas, it may be possible to pursue legal action against the owner of the dog. However, you must have a convincing argument and evidence backing your claim. A San Antonio dog bite lawyer can help decipher who is at fault and whether you have a claim worth pursuing. It is important to be aware that the Texas statute of limitations requires you to file a claim within two years from the date you suffered the dog bite. If you successfully file a claim, you may be able to recover compensation for the dog bite, including pain and suffering, permanent scarring and disfigurement, medical expenses, and more.