Senate Bill No. 2438 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to establish new conditions for community supervision for defendants convicted of specific animal-related offenses. The bill allows judges to require defendants to complete an online responsible pet owner course that lasts at least two hours, as well as a course sponsored by a municipal animal shelter that receives public funding. The online course must cover various topics, including federal and state animal protection laws, responsible animal care, animal bite prevention, and regulations governing dog and cat breeders.

The bill also clarifies that the online responsible pet owner course must include specific content related to animal welfare and legal responsibilities, while removing previous requirements for course approval and certification by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The changes apply to defendants placed on community supervision on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.