Committee holds bill to license dog trainers after hours of testimony from trainers, rescuers and owners

The Senate Economic Growth Committee on Oct. 12 heard extensive testimony and then voted to hold Senate Bill 3814, a proposal to create a state dog-training licensing board and statewide standards for the practice of dog training.

The bill, sponsored in the Senate by Senator Gopal and introduced in committee by Chairwoman Cruz Perez, would establish a seven‑member board charged with setting education and experiential requirements for licensure, developing a code of practice, and defining permitted and prohibited training tools. The bill’s proposed language also would prohibit unlicensed practice and require licensees to follow a “first, do no harm” standard, language cited in written references to veterinary professional organizations.

Supporters of licensing told the committee that minimum standards would protect owners and animals and create accountability. Colin…