VT H0183

Imposes strict liability on domestic dog owners for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether the owner knew of any dangerous propensities or prior incidents

Requires dog owners to keep their dogs under reasonable control at all times and prevent them from running at large

Covers injuries to persons or their domestic pets that occur in public places or while lawfully on another's private property

Exempts owners from liability when: the injured person was trespassing, the dog was defending against an attack, the dog was securely confined, or the injured person provoked the dog

Exempts government agencies using dogs in military or police work from liability for injuries occurring during official duties

Repeals existing municipal investigation procedures for vicious domestic pet or wolf-hybrid complaints under 20 V.S.A. § 3546

Effective date: July 1, 2025