HB1497

The Protecting Our Hunting Dogs Act establishes protections for hunting dogs in Mississippi and outlines penalties for harming them.

The Protecting Our Hunting Dogs Act creates uniform statewide standards to protect hunting dogs, which are considered valuable working animals. It prohibits the intentional killing or serious injury of hunting dogs, with violations punishable by up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. The act also provides handlers with a limited right to retrieve their dogs from private property, provided they follow specific rules. It mandates restitution for damages caused by hunting dogs, excluding cases of lawful self-defense.