(a) A justice court, county court, or municipal court shall order the animal control authority to seize a dog and shall issue a warrant authorizing the seizure:
(1) on the sworn complaint of any person, including the county attorney, the city attorney, or a peace officer, that the dog has caused the death of or serious bodily injury to a person by attacking, biting, or mauling the person; and
(2) on a showing of probable cause to believe that the dog caused the death of or serious bodily injury to the person as stated in the complaint.
(b) The animal control authority shall seize the dog or order its seizure and shall provide for the impoundment of the dog in secure and humane conditions until the court orders the disposition of the dog.

Terms Used In Texas Health and Safety Code 822.002

  • Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
  • Justice: when applied to a magistrate, means justice of the peace. See Texas Government Code 312.011
  • Person: includes corporation, organization, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, and any other legal entity. See Texas Government Code 311.005
  • Probable cause: A reasonable ground for belief that the offender violated a specific law.
  • sworn: includes affirm or affirmed. See Texas Government Code 312.011
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