There is nothing in Texas law that limits the number of animals a household can keep.

What are the dog laws in Texas 2023?

Under the new law, a person who abuses or neglects their service dog will be subject to seizure of the animal. The bill was signed by Abbott and takes effect on Sept. 1, 2023. SB 876 is the “Puppy Mill Bill” that requires licenses for dog or cat breeders in possession of five or more female animals used for breeding.

What is the new dog Texas law?

New Texas laws on animals

Licensing breeders: Senate Bill 876 relates to the licensing and regulation of dog and cat breeders. Breeders with five or more females must become licensed. Previously, that number was 11. A license requires a facility to be inspected.

How much pets can you have in Texas?

The state of Texas doesn't have a statewide limit on the number of dogs you can own. But it does authorize individual municipalities to set their own rules. Want to learn more about dog laws in the Lone Star State? has all the info you need.

How many dogs can you own in Houston Texas?

Dog Ownership Limitations:

10-64 It shall be unlawful for any person to simultaneously have or keep more than three dogs over the age of six months if within 150 feet of any residential dwelling other than the dwelling of the owner of such dogs.

Exotic Pets Legal to Own in Texas

Can I have 5 dogs in Texas?

There is nothing in Texas law that limits the number of animals a household can keep. That responsibility falls on local governments to write the ordinances.

Does Texas require dog license?

Texas State Law requires all dogs and cats to have current rabies vaccinations. Animal Control enforces this law by requiring all resident pet owners to show proof of their animals current rabies vaccination certificate when purchasing a City pet license.

What is the new law in Texas about animals?

New Texas law bars animal cruelty offenders from owning animals for five years. The law bans those convicted of animal cruelty, including those involved with dogfighting, from owning any kind of animal for five years after their first criminal offense.

Can you claim pets on taxes in Texas?

The Internal Revenue Service does not allow people to claim pets as dependents on their taxes, despite food and vet bills that can pile up.

What are the animal laws in Texas?

Section 42.09 “Cruelty to Livestock Animals” and 42.092 “Cruelty of Non-Livestock Animals” of the Texas Penal Code prohibits a person from intentionally, knowingly or recklessly cruelly treating an animal. The following actions define cruel punishment: Torturing an animal. Failing to provide food, care or shelter.

Is Texas banning chaining up dogs?

A new Texas law went into effect Tuesday, prohibiting unattended dogs from being restrained with a chain. The new law aims to create more humane conditions for dogs.

Is it illegal to let your dog roam in Texas?

Texas has no statewide “leash law,” but Houston and several other cities have local laws that require dog owners to leash, muzzle or otherwise restrain their dogs at all times when they are in public areas or prohibit owners from letting their dogs “run at large.” If a dog owner or handler violates one of these local ...

Is backyard breeding legal in Texas?

Summary: Under the Texas Dog or Cat Breeders Act, a person may not act as a dog or cat breeder without a license. Facilities must be inspected at least once every 18-months, and inspectors must notify the law enforcement if they discover evidence of animal cruelty or neglect.

Is it illegal to sell puppies in Texas?

It is illegal to sell, trade, barter, or give pets away without a permit, regardless of where you're trying to sell them. If you want to sell your pet, please apply for a Litter Permit, as well as a Seller's Permit.

What is the vicious dog law in Texas?

822.044.

a) A person commits an offense if the person is the owner of a dangerous dog and the dog makes an unprovoked attack on another person outside the dog's enclosure and causes bodily injury to the other person. (b) An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.

What animals are tax exempt in Texas?

Which animals qualify? Cattle, sheep, goats and bees typically qualify for special ag valuation. However, each Texas county has its own rules. To understand your specific opportunities, contact the appraisal district in which your property is located.

Can I write off my dogs vet bills?

Veterinary bills, pet insurance, food, supplies, training, grooming, boarding, and transportation costs are all examples of pet expenses you can write off on taxes. However, you can only claim pets on taxes if they meet certain criteria, such as contributing to income or serving a medical need.

What animals give you a tax break?

Service animals

You might be able to deduct expenses for food, training, grooming, and veterinary costs, Plotts said. You should be able to deduct any expenses above 7.5% of your adjusted gross income that are related to the animal helping you in a medical capacity.

Is it illegal to abandon pets in Texas?

In Texas, abandoning a dog is considered a serious animal cruelty offense that carries strict punishments. The penalties for abandoning a dog in Texas can include: Misdemeanor – Abandoning a dog is a Class A misdemeanor in Texas. If convicted, a person can face up to a year in jail and up to $4,000 in fines.

Is microchipping mandatory in Texas?

According to the City of Houston Municipal Code, anyone who owns, keeps, possesses, or has control of a dog or cat four months of age or older must have his or her pet registered, vaccinated against rabies every year, and a registered microchip.

What animals do you need a permit for in Texas?

In Texas, it depends on the type of animal an individual owns. A certificate of registration is required to own a “dangerous wild animal” such as a lion. Endangered species are illegal to own unless a permit has been filed and approved. Kangaroos do not fall into either category and are legal to own.

What happens if you don't license your dog in Texas?

Pet Licensing | Harris County Veterinary Public Health | Texas. It is the law for all cats and dogs over three months of age and living in unincorporated Harris County to wear a Harris County license tag and to have a current rabies vaccination. Failure to comply may result in fines up to $500.

What do you need to register a dog in Texas?

To be registered, dogs and cats must be current on all vaccinations and have a rabies vaccine administered by a veterinarian in the State of Texas.

How many pets can you have in an apartment in Texas?

Texas does not have any specific tenant pet laws. Landlords can create their own rules for pets and put them in your lease.

Can you breed and sell dogs in Texas?

Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 876 into law on May 29. The law will require dog or cat breeders with five or more adult unspayed females to obtain a license to operate under the Texas Occupations Code. Breeding dogs and cats will be considered a profession, so Texas breeders will be held to a higher standard.

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