HB250

I'm a professional dog trainer and behavior consultant. I'm a big fan of muzzles when they are properly fit and the dog has been appropriately conditioned to wear one without increasing their level of distress. When muzzles are used well, I strongly believe that they can actually improve the dog's quality of life and lower stress and anxiety for that dog's owner, while also keeping the community safe. Importantly, local regulations that may result from this bill should include requirements that a muzzled dog be able to eat, drink water, and pant while wearing their muzzle. These are well-established welfare standards for ensuring that the welfare of the dog wearing the muzzle is still acceptable. It's the humane thing to do for that animal, but it's honestly also better for community safety. If a dog who has already demonstrated aggression is walking around in the community wearing an uncomfortable, stress-inducing thing on their face, it's highly likely that their aggressive behaviors will be repeated and exacerbated.