The quest for tighter controls over dangerous dogs is gathering pace in San Antonio with Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito spearheading a bid to bring in heavier fines, mandatory sterilization, and a protective veil of anonymity for those reporting these animals. In the wake of multiple severe dog attacks, one of which resulted in the death of 81-year-old Ramon Najera in February 2023, the Governance Committee has moved Gavito's Council Consideration Request (CCR) to the Public Safety Committee, inching it nearer to a full City Council vote, according to a report by KENS 5.
Gavito's proposal aims to address a "crisis" that she attributes not to the canines themselves but to negligent owners, envisioning steeper penalties that could see second-time offenders slapped with a minimum of $500 in fines, and an even higher $750 fine for subsequent infractions, as reported by KENS 5; simultaneously Gavito is pushing for the Animal Care Services (ACS) to sterilize dogs found loose on the streets, a move that dovetails with efforts to curb overpopulation and reduce the risks posed to both people and traffic by unsupervised dogs.
Another layer of the proposed legislation seeks to shield residents from potential retaliation for reporting dangerous dogs by allowing them to report anonymously, however, this has hit a stumbling block as state legislation might complicate confidentiality during criminal proceedings. State Sen. José Menéndez, speaking with KENS 5, pointed out that the cloak of anonymity can't be maintained once a case takes a criminal turn, with witnesses required to come forward just as in any criminal case, yet Gavito is working with municipal courts to ensure as much protection for witnesses as possible within the system's bounds. Max De Los Santos, a victim of a brutal dog attack, and his wife Beatrice have voiced support for the proposals, expressing that although no legislation could fully rectify their loss, it could heighten awareness among responsible neighbors who might intervene when others flaunt their civic duty.
Earlier legislative efforts, like the Dangerous Dog Bill proposed by State Rep. Liz Campos, which sought similar protections and procedures for anonymous reporting, failed to become law after a veto by Gov. Greg Abbott—Raymond Najera, whose father's death has been a catalyst for change, was present as Gavito announced her proposal, signaling ongoing commitment among community members for reform. While full details can be found in the ACS's Strategic Plan, the agency has indicated via a statement shared by KENS 5 they are "pleased to continue our work with District 7 as well as our other local and state lawmakers to make San Antonio a safer, more humane place for people and pets," articulating its dedication to public safety and the improvement of investigative processes regarding dangerous dogs.
