Avery's Law in Cleveland Ohio: New Dog Bite Rules for 2026
If you or a loved one were bitten by a dog in Cleveland, Ohio, understanding your legal rights is critical. In late 2025, Ohio lawmakers passed House Bill 247, commonly known as Avery's Law, which introduces significant updates to how the state handles dangerous dogs and owner liability. These changes, which take effect in March 2026, are designed to increase public safety and hold negligent dog owners accountable.
Under Ohio's strict liability dog bite law, dog owners are already held financially responsible for unprovoked attacks. Avery's Law builds upon this foundation by expanding the definition of a dangerous dog, introducing criminal penalties for negligent owners, and requiring mandatory liability insurance. If you are pursuing a claim in Cleveland, your case will likely be handled by the Cleveland Municipal Court or the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas.
What is Avery's Law (H.B. 247)?
Avery's Law was named after 13-year-old Avery Russell of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, who sustained serious injuries in a brutal dog attack in 2024. Following the incident, the owner of the attacking dogs was fined a mere $450, sparking public outrage and a demand for legislative reform. Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 247 into law to address these gaps.
Taking effect in March 2026, the law strengthens Ohio's dangerous dog regulations. It provides local dog wardens, including the Cleveland Division of Animal Care & Control, with greater authority to seize dangerous dogs and enforce compliance. For victims of dog bites, this legislation reinforces the importance of reporting incidents promptly and seeking dog bite compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Expanded Definition of a "Dangerous Dog"
One of the most critical changes introduced by Avery's Law is the broadened definition of what constitutes a "dangerous dog." Previously, a dog often had to bite someone to receive this designation. Under the new law, a dog can be labeled dangerous in a wider range of circumstances, even without a prior bite incident.
Qualifying incidents now include causing serious injury to a person, causing serious injury or death to another dog, or repeated nuisance violations. This proactive approach allows authorities to intervene before a tragic attack occurs. If a dog in your Cleveland neighborhood exhibits aggressive behavior, reporting it to the Cuyahoga County Board of Health can help establish a documented history, which is vital if an attack later takes place.
Criminal Penalties and Insurance Requirements
Avery's Law introduces strict consequences for owners who fail to control their pets. Dog owners can now face criminal penalties if they negligently fail to keep their dog from committing an unprovoked attack. Furthermore, the law mandates euthanasia for dogs that seriously injure or kill a human in an unprovoked attack.
Financially, the law requires owners of dogs formally labeled as dangerous or vicious to purchase and maintain at least $100,000 in liability insurance. This ensures that if a designated dangerous dog attacks someone, there is a guaranteed source of funds to compensate the victim. If you are bitten, what to do after a dog bite includes identifying the dog's owner and verifying their insurance coverage.
Ohio Revised Code § 955.28
Under Ohio's strict liability statute, a dog owner, keeper, or harborer is liable for any damages caused by their dog, provided the victim was not trespassing, committing a crime, or teasing, tormenting, or abusing the animal. Avery's Law strengthens this by adding criminal penalties for negligent owners and requiring $100,000 in liability insurance for dogs designated as dangerous.
For the full statute text and legal analysis, see our Ohio dog bite law guide.
Liability for Keepers and Harborers
Liability under Ohio law is not limited solely to the legal owner of the dog. Avery's Law explicitly extends responsibility to "keepers" and "harborers." A keeper is someone who has physical control over the dog, such as a dog walker or a trainer. A harborer is someone who controls the premises where the dog lives, such as a landlord who permits a dangerous dog in common areas.
This means that animal shelters, boarding facilities, groomers, and temporary caregivers can be held legally accountable if a dog in their care attacks someone. The law requires that no owner, harborer, or keeper may fail to keep the dog physically confined or restrained on their premises. This expanded liability provides victims with additional avenues to seek compensation when the actual owner is uninsured or underinsured.
Dog Bite Resources in Cleveland, Ohio
If you have been bitten by a dog in Cleveland, here is the essential local information you need to protect your health and your legal claim:
- Court: Cleveland Municipal Court handles dog bite claims filed in Cleveland.
- Filing deadline: Up to 6 years under R.C. § 955.28 for strict liability claims. Negligence claims: 2 years. Minor victims: clock starts at age 18.
- Animal Control / Police: Cleveland Division of Animal Care & Control at (216) 664-3069.
- Cuyahoga County Board of Health: Report all bites within 24 hours at ccbh.net or (216) 201-2001. Request the investigation report, as it is key evidence.
- Nearest Emergency Care: MetroHealth Medical Center (Level I Trauma Center), 2500 MetroHealth Dr, Cleveland, OH 44109.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Avery's Law apply to all dogs in Cleveland?
Avery's Law applies statewide in Ohio, including Cleveland. While the strict liability rules apply to all dogs, the specific requirements for $100,000 in liability insurance and mandatory euthanasia apply primarily to dogs that have been formally designated as dangerous or vicious, or dogs that cause serious unprovoked injuries.
Can a landlord be held liable under the new law?
Yes, if a landlord exercises control over common areas where a dog is allowed to roam, they may be considered a "harborer" under Ohio law. Avery's Law reinforces that harborers must ensure dogs are physically confined or restrained, and they can be held liable if an attack occurs on the premises they control.
What should I do if I am attacked by a dog in Cleveland?
First, seek immediate medical attention at a facility like MetroHealth Medical Center. Next, report the bite to the Cleveland Division of Animal Care & Control and the Cuyahoga County Board of Health. Finally, consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights under Ohio's strict liability statute and the new provisions of Avery's Law.
Injured by a Dog in Cleveland?
Ohio's strict liability law may entitle you to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and scarring, regardless of the dog's prior history.
Cases filed in Cleveland are heard at the Cleveland Municipal Court or Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas. Our attorneys know these courts and can guide you through every step.
Get Your Free Case ReviewThis article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading this content. Contact a licensed Ohio attorney for advice about your specific situation.
Related Communities
Injured in a Dog Bite in the Cleveland Area?
Ohio's strict liability law means you don't have to prove the dog was dangerous before. Ryan Injury Attorneys handles dog bite cases throughout Cuyahoga County. No fee unless we recover for you.