ID S1302

Counties and municipalities may allow alternative means of dog identification such as microchip implantation instead of requiring traditional collar and tag identification.

Sheriffs may seize and impound dogs running at large; owners have 5 days (counting only days the facility is open to the public) to reclaim impounded dogs upon payment of costs and fines before the dog may be humanely killed or transferred.

Dog owners are liable for damages when their dogs injure or kill companion or production animals without provocation, including costs of suit and attorney's fees for production animals; exceptions apply for designated off-leash areas and certain work situations.

Defines "dangerous dogs" (those that inflict serious injury or kill a person without provocation, or previously at-risk dogs that subsequently attack) and "at-risk dogs" (those that aggressively bite without provocation or previously violated animal damage provisions), with courts authorized to impose restrictions including secure confinement, leashing requirements, microchipping, and warning signs.

Establishes escalating penalties for violations: first offense up to 6 months jail and $100-$5,000 fine; second offense within 10 years up to 6 months and $200-$7,000 fine; third or subsequent offense within 10 years up to 12 months and $500-$9,000 fine.