Relating to conditions of community supervision for defendants convicted of certain criminal offenses involving animals.

SB 2438 requires judges to impose a condition of community supervision for defendants convicted of specific animal-related offenses (under Penal Code Sections 42.09, 42.091, 42.092, or 42.10). Defendants must complete either an approved online responsible pet owner course (at least two hours) or a course sponsored by a municipal animal shelter in their county. The courses must cover federal/state animal protection laws (including cruelty and dogfighting laws), responsible animal care practices, bite prevention, and breeder regulations. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation oversees course approval, certification, and content standards.