There have been reoccurring reports of dog bites that lead to serious injuries and even death in the state of Texas. The punishment, however, has not been extremely severe. The most common penalty for owners for this kind of offense ranges from a probation period of not owning a dog and extensive fines, to jail time, depending on the severity of the case.  The most common offenses are misdemeanors, felonies, and occasionally a manslaughter charge.  

Now there have been reported dog attacks that are deemed first and second degree murders.  This can land the owner of the offending dog behind bars for life if House Bill 1389, which is currently being reviewed, is passed.  

“I think it’s kind of unfair to the owner,” says college junior Kayla McClelland, "it’s like one little slip up and you’re in jail. I just don’t think the blame should all fall on the owner.”  

There are many factors that contribute to how the judge determines each case because there are different degrees of negligence on the owners’ part.  In many cases dogs are trained to protect and mistake strangers for intruders when they step outside the boundaries of their home.  Another common theme in canine attacks is mistreatment, starvation, and abuse to a dog which in turn causes it to be hostile towards humans.  After these incidents, dogs are sent to a sort of correction facility.  If they are rendered incorrigible, euthanasia is the only other option.  

“I don’t think it’s the dog’s fault if they accidentally kill someone. It’s just instinct from a long time ago. Domestic dogs are still dogs, they don’t know any better,” says sophomore Keia Dawson.  

Most students agree that the punishment of life in prison seems severe. Ultimately, it all boils down to each specific case.