SECTION 1.

Section 157 of chapter 140 of the General Laws, as appearing in the latest official edition, is hereby amended by inserting after subsection (c) (vii) the following subsection:- c (viii) that all dogs deemed as dangerous shall have a mandatory evaluation and regular meetings as prescribed by a Diplomate of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, non-veterinary Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, or a veterinarian that is familiar with and uses methods that follow the position statements of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.  Should the behaviorist/veterinarian believe the dog will benefit from training, she/he will recommend a trainer.  The trainer will act to help implement the plan created by the behaviorist/veterinarian and maintain regular communication with the associated behaviorist/veterinarian.  Recommended trainers must exclusively employ evidence-based training techniques that do not result in pain, discomfort, fear, or anxiety.  Electronic, prong, or choke collars must not be used.  All professionals involved shall be educated in and use methods that adhere to principals outlined by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

SECTION 2.

Section 157 of chapter 140 of the General Laws, as appearing in the latest official edition, is hereby amended by inserting in subsection (d) after the words, “keeper of a dog” the following words:- complainant /victim.

SECTION 3.

Section 157 of chapter 140 of the General Laws, as appearing in the latest official edition, is hereby amended by inserting in subsection (e) (1) after the word, “keeper” the following words:- complainant/victim.

SECTION 4.

Section 157 of chapter 140 of the General Laws, as appearing in the latest official edition, is hereby amended by inserting in subsection (e) (2) after the words, “in violation of this section” the following words:- , in non-compliance of veterinarian/behaviorist recommendations .

SECTION 5.

Section 157 of chapter 140 of the General Laws, as appearing in the latest official edition, is hereby amended by inserting in subsection (h) after the words, “in violation of an order issued under this section” the following words:- , or veterinarian/behaviorist recommendations.

SECTION 6.

Section 157A of chapter 140 of the General Laws, as appearing in the latest official edition, is hereby amended by inserting in subsection (a) after the words, “an order of a hearing authority” the following words:- , veterinarian/behaviorist recommendations