Protecting Families Through Avery’s Law
In Reynoldsburg, Ohio, the life of 11-year-old Avery Russell changed forever after a brutal dog attack in June 2024. Two pit bulls, Apollo and Layla, severely mauled Avery and her cousin Jessica Henry, leaving them both with life-altering injuries that required emergency surgeries. The attack was so violent that first responders could barely identify Avery as she was rushed to Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
This month, a Franklin County judge found the dogs’ owner, Stephanie Ayers, guilty of failing to confine and control her animals. Yet under current law, the penalties Ayers faces are minimal: a misdemeanor carrying at most 30 days in jail and an $850 fine. Meanwhile, Avery and Jessica continue to live with the physical and emotional scars of that day.
Sadly, Avery’s story is not unique. Each year, about 17,000 dog bites are reported across Ohio—many of them causing devastating injuries, amputations, or even deaths. But too often, victims are left without justice while owners of dangerous dogs face only minor consequences.
To address these gaps, the Ohio House unanimously passed Avery’s Law earlier this summer. The bill, now awaiting action in the Senate Judiciary Committee, would:
Require owners of dangerous dogs to carry at least $100,000 in liability insurance.
Mandate secure confinement of dangerous dogs when visitors are on the property.
Require euthanasia for dogs that kill or cause serious injury to a person.
Increase registration fees and enforcement powers for dog wardens.
Ohio Animal Advocates supports stronger laws to protect both people and pets. Our work includes advocating for balanced legislation, providing resources to pet owners, and ensuring that companion animals are protected from cruelty and neglect. Learn more about our efforts here: Ohio Animal Advocates Programs.
Take Action
It seems like every month brings another heartbreaking story of animal cruelty in Ohio—from mass neglect cases to individual tragedies like Hazel, the emotional support animal left to die on Summit Lake. These cases highlight why stronger protections are urgently needed. Here’s what you can do today:
Contact your state Senator. Urge them to co-sponsor and support Ohio S.B. 64, which strengthens Goddard’s Law by increasing penalties for animal cruelty and prohibiting convicted abusers from owning pets. You can find your legislator here. Use the sample letter on our Action Alert resource page.
Spread the word. Share this story with friends and on social media to raise awareness, educate others, and encourage family and friends to take action too.
By working together, we can make Ohio safer for children, families, and the animals we love.
