Last night, I had the privilege of assisting a U.S. LawShield member who was confronted with an attacking pit bull. Unfortunately, no law in Florida allows a person to shoot an attacking dog in defense of human life or injury. The victim fired a single shot at the dog killing it, as it charged toward him, teeth exposed. We discussed his options. Afterwards, he decided to speak with the police about the incident. The police arrived and took a report. Afterwards, the officer wished him a good evening, and returned his firearm.
Although we have posted about this subject before, I thought it would be a good time to remind everyone what Florida law says about shooting an attacking animal.
There is no general statutory authorization to use deadly force in self-defense against an animal attack against a human. Floridians must instead rely on common law and the specific wording of the animal cruelty statute to defend against potential charges if a dog is attacking a human. People are forced to rely on the requirement in the animal cruelty statutes that a killing be “necessary” in order to defend against the charge of animal cruelty.