The Law
NOTICE: Due to the nature of the legal system and its ever-changing laws we cannot warrant the accuracy of what is written below. While we try to make sure the laws posted on this website are up-to-date, it is your responsibility to know the current laws as they pertain to you and your pets.
Vaccination against rabies is required for all dogs and cats and must be administered by, or under the supervision of, a licensed veterinarian by the time an animal is 3-4 MONTHS old and yearly thereafter.
[Back to the Top]
Licensing of dogs and cats is required each year. Owners must present a current rabies certificate from a licensed veterinarian and pay a fee. A license can be obtained from:
- The Humane Society Animal Shelter located at 1920 Kuehler Ave. in New Braunfels
Purchasing a license demonstrates vaccination against rabies, and aids in the identification of an owner in the event your pet is lost, injured or impounded.
Altered animals may obtain a lifetime license for a onetime fee if the animal remains current on rabies vaccination and the proof is given to the humane society on a yearly basis.
[Back to the Top]
"Restraint" is defined as being secured by a leash or lead and under the control of a responsible person, OR confined in a yard that is enclosed by a secure, substantial fence. All domesticated animals must be kept under restraint at all times, even though they may be vaccinated and tagged.
House Bill 1411
Unlawful restraint includes:
Tethering between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Tethering within 500 feet of a school or 15 feet from road or sidewalk
Tethering during weather conditions
Unreasonable restraint:
Using a restraint that is less than 5 times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of the dog's nose to the base of the dog's tail.
Using a restraint in unsafe conditions
Using a restraint that results in injury to the animal
Using a collar that is pinch-type, prong-type, or choke-type
[Back to the Top]
- No more than a total of 4 dogs or 4 cats or any combination of, are allowed per household.
- All dogs are required to have a shelter consisting of 3 sides, a roof and a floor.
- No animal shall be left unattended in a parked vehicle when the outside temperature exceeds 85°F.
- No animal may be offered or sold from any parking lot, street, or other access way.
[Back to the Top]
Animal Bites must be reported immediately to Animal Control Dispatch at 830-608-2183.
[Back to the Top]