The bill amends the Revised Code to establish comprehensive regulations for the ownership and management of wolfdog hybrids, introducing new definitions such as "first generation wolfdog" and "wolfdog hybrid." It requires owners to register their wolfdog hybrids with the county auditor, pay a registration fee, and provide proof of spaying or neutering, as well as signage indicating the presence of the animal and microchipping. The legislation also outlines a notification process for landowners regarding nuisance animals and allows counties to recover costs associated with addressing these nuisances.

In addition to ownership regulations, the bill mandates that sellers of wolfdog hybrids provide a transfer of ownership certificate and disclose any known behavioral issues, particularly if the animal is deemed dangerous or vicious. Sellers must inform local health authorities and the county dog warden within ten days of the transfer and obtain the buyer's acknowledgment of understanding the responsibilities associated with owning a wolfdog hybrid. The bill imposes strict liability for violations, requires owners to secure their animals and obtain liability insurance, and prohibits certain actions like debarking. Existing sections of the Revised Code related to dog ownership are repealed to implement these new provisions effectively.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 955.01, 955.024, 955.11