Avery’s Law Takes Effect in Ohio, Increasing Penalties for Dangerous Dog Attacks

Ohio’s new law aimed at increasing accountability for owners of dangerous dogs, known as Avery’s Law, went into effect on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. The legislation increases penalties for owners whose dogs cause serious harm, mandates liability insurance for dogs designated as “vicious,” and allows for the immediate seizure of dangerous dogs.

The Story Behind Avery’s Law

Avery’s Law is named for Avery Russell, a Reynoldsburg, Ohio, girl who was 11 years old when she was attacked by two pit bulls in June 2024 during a playdate. The attack resulted in Avery spending a month in the hospital and left her with lasting physical and emotional scars. A separate report indicates she suffered the loss of both ears and severe scarring.

Following the attack, Avery’s mother, Drew Russell, expressed frustration with the initial sentencing of the dog’s owner, Stephanie Ayers, who was fined $450 and sentenced to four days in jail. Drew Russell stated that Ayers was able to resume her life while Avery faced permanent changes.

Avery herself expressed a desire to make a difference in the world following the attack.

Key Provisions of Avery’s Law

• Increased Penalties: The law increases the minimum jail time for owners whose dogs cause serious harm from 30 days to six months.
• Liability Insurance: Owners of dogs designated as “vicious” are now required to obtain liability insurance.
• Immediate Seizure: The law enables the immediate seizure of dangerous dogs.
• Registration and Microchipping: Owners of dogs labeled as vicious must pay a $100 annual registration fee, post warning signs on their property, and have their dog microchipped.

Impact and Reactions

Dog wardens across Ohio have expressed support for the new law, noting that it addresses gaps in the previous system, sometimes referred to as a “one free bite” approach, where initial penalties for dog bites were often minimal. Matt Granito, Geauga County Dog Warden, stated that under the new law, owners can face jail time and the potential loss of their dog.

Drew Russell, Avery’s mother, acknowledged that the legislation is a starting point, stating, “It’s not anywhere near where it needs to be, but it’s a start.”