S.B. No. 195 Summary

• Revises definitions of nuisance, dangerous, and vicious dogs in Ohio's Dogs Law with specific criteria for each classification based on dog behavior and incidents involving injury or death.

• Establishes new registration requirements for dangerous dogs through county dog wardens, including fees ($50 initial and annual renewal), microchipping, rabies vaccination, spaying/neutering, and warning signs at residence.

• Increases confinement requirements for dangerous dogs including chain-link leashes (maximum 6 feet), locked enclosures, and muzzling when off owner's property; requires liability insurance of at least $100,000.

• Creates a notification and response procedure for alleged violations where authorized enforcement personnel must post notice on property and dog owner must respond within 48 hours or face fines ($25 for 48-hour violation, $40 for 96-hour violation).

• Enhances penalties for violations including misdemeanor charges for nuisance dog violations and felony charges for vicious dog incidents; requires dog warden training standards of 42 hours initial and 10 hours continuing education.