Kentucky’s current dog bite liability law (KRS 258.235 and KRS 258.990) is hurting responsible families and their pets. The statute imposes strict liability, meaning dog owners are automatically held accountable for any injury their dog causes—no matter the circumstances. Even if a person startles, provokes, or touches a dog without the owner’s permission, the owner can face lawsuits, financial ruin, and often the heartbreaking choice to surrender or euthanize their dog. Families who follow the rules and care deeply for their animals are being punished, and beloved pets are paying the ultimate price

This law doesn’t just harm dog owners; it harms the dogs themselves and every Kentuckian. Homeowners’ insurance companies are often forced to pay large settlements regardless of fault, driving up premiums for all of us. But the bigger tragedy is what happens to the animals: dogs involved in these cases are frequently labeled “dangerous” and destroyed, even when they were simply defending themselves from unwanted contact. Overcrowded shelters are left with more dogs they cannot place, further straining already limited resources. By updating the statute to include a reasonable defense when a victim provokes, startles, or touches a dog without permission, we can protect responsible owners, reduce frivolous lawsuits, lower insurance costs, and—most importantly—save countless dogs from needless suffering and death. This change is about fairness, compassion, and common sense.

Every day another Kentucky family faces losing their dog, their savings, and their peace of mind because of this outdated law. Our shelters are at capacity, our court systems are overwhelmed, and our insurance rates continue to climb. These statutes haven’t been updated in more than 20 years—the last amendments to KRS 258.235 and KRS 258.990 were in 2004. It’s time for Kentucky’s laws to reflect today’s understanding of responsible ownership, animal welfare, and fairness. With the 2025 legislative session approaching, lawmakers have an opportunity to take meaningful action now to keep pets in loving homes, reduce overcrowding in animal shelters, and ensure Kentuckians are not punished for situations beyond their control. Please sign this petition and share it widely—together, we can create a safer, fairer, and more compassionate Kentucky for people and their pets.