After the devastating dog attack that seriously injured Avery Russell, Ohio lawmakers passed Avery's Law to strengthen the state's dangerous dog statutes and increase accountability for owners of designated dangerous dogs.

But does the new law accomplish its goal?

In this episode of The Animal Welfare Junction, Dr. G is joined by Dana Pannella, Esq., an Ohio attorney with extensive experience in dangerous dog law, to examine what Avery's Law actually says, how it changes liability for dog owners and professionals, and why some of its language may create unintended consequences.

• Together they discuss:
• The attack that inspired Avery's Law
• How Ohio's dangerous dog laws changed
• The new liability requirements for owners of designated dangerous dogs
• The requirement to carry at least $100,000 in liability insurance—and the challenges many owners face obtaining coverage
• Why the statutory definition of a "dangerous dog" may be broader than many people realize
• How incidents involving injury may be interpreted under the law, even when the dog's behavior or the surrounding circumstances are disputed
• What veterinarians, animal control officers, trainers, shelters, rescues, and dog owners need to know
• Practical recommendations for reducing risk and staying compliant

This episode explores both the strengths and potential shortcomings of Avery's Law, with a focus on helping listeners understand what the law requires, who it affects, and why the definition of a "dangerous dog" matters.

Whether you're a dog owner, veterinarian, attorney, animal control officer, trainer, rescue volunteer, or simply interested in animal law, this conversation provides important insight into one of Ohio's most significant recent changes to dangerous dog legislation.

Guest: Dana Pannella, Esq.

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*This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Individuals with questions about their specific circumstances should consult a qualified attorney.*

This week's guest is Vicki Diesner, Executive Director of Ohio Animal Advocates. She joins Dr. G to discuss legislation currently being considered at the Ohio Statehouse that could improve the wellbeing of companion animals and those who care about them.

On this episode we discuss:

- Ban on cat declawing for cosmetic or convenience reasons

- Ban on non-veterinarians performing surgical procedures, such as tail docking, ear cropping and dewclaw removal

- Improving access to wellness care through increased registered veterinary technician utilization

Learn about what each policy seeks to achieve, who is opposing the legislations, and what you can do to support these common sense laws that aim to improve the welfare of our companion animals.

The 2026 Animal ForensiCon in Orlando, Florida

When we think of hunting crimes, our first thought may be illegal hunting. In this case however, the hunters were the victims of a long-running scam. Dr. Eileen Roy-Zokan from University of Florida takes us through an investigation that started with a citizen concern and developed into a puzzle that would be solved through DNA and multi-agency collaboration.

This case brings together many of the presentations in the conference, and is a great example of the importance of events like this that aim to teach new concepts and encourage networking.