Save Our Dogs! Require Education and Training in Animal Control for Travis County Law Enforcement Officers

To:  Travis County Commissioners Court

We, the undersigned, believe in preserving the lives of animals in Travis County, Texas.  After several recent incidents of domesticated animals being shot to death within Travis County it is clear that a precise policy for the handling of all animals, regardless of breed or sex, needs to be implemented in our county.  We believe that such a policy should end with the killing of a domesticated animal, not begin with it.Profiling an animal by its breed is no different than profiling a person for his or her race.  Subsequently, such a policy should be developed that educates law enforcement on breeds that are stereotypically considered “dangerous.” This will help to ensure that the action of any officer of Travis County exerts only the minimal amount of force necessary to take control of the animal in the situation.Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 829, outlines the requirements for educating and training Animal Control Officers.  Since it is possible that a situation may arise in which animal control cannot be contacted in a timely manner, we the undersigned petition that the Travis County Commissioners Court develop and implement such a program for all Travis County Law Enforcement Officers.  The development and implementation of such a policy would not only guarantee that innocent animals are not being treated in a “cruel manner” as outlined in Texas Penal Code Section 42.092, but would also eliminate the undue pain and suffering forced upon the owner of the animal.  I certify, by signature below, that I am a citizen of Travis County, with voting privileges, who agrees with the above statements.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned

The Save Our Dogs! Require Education and Training in Animal Control for Travis County Law Enforcement Officers Petition to Travis County Commissioners Court was created by and written by Philip Redmon (phillysbullys@yahoo.com).  This petition is hosted here at www.PetitionOnline.com as a public service. There is no endorsement of this petition, express or implied, by Artifice, Inc. or our sponsors. For technical support please use our simple Petition Help form.