We've probably all seen a video or two of a law enforcement officer shooting some family's pet. One can almost understand if an officer genuinely feels threatened. However, most dogs want to protect their family, and a confrontational law enforcement officer might trigger that reaction. But most dogs don't go beyond making noise and don't represent a real threat.
It has happened enough times that animal advocacy groups lobbied for and got a law on the books in Texas requiring new law enforcement officers and those seeking a promotion to get training on the topic. Here's the way the Texas Humane Legislation Network describes it:
CANINE ENCOUNTER TRAINING FOR POLICE OFFICERS PASSED!
THLN had a huge victory with HB 593 - The Mandatory Canine Encounter Training Bill. This bill, which requires canine encounter training for all new police recruits and some of those seeking advancement, will train thousands of Texas peace officers to better handle encounters with our beloved canines. THLN began working on this bill in 2013 and created key partnerships with law enforcement and victim's families. Last year, over 200 dogs were shot by law enforcement in Texas; hopefully, HB 593 will drastically reduce these incidents. A special Thank You to Rep. Nicole Collier and her staff who passionately advocated for this bill.
(Bold added for emphasis.)
Over 200 dogs -- that sure seems like a lot. Maybe some dogs' lives will be saved by this measure. In any event, the bill went into effect on 9/1/2015.
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