Lubbock Avalanche-Journal February's bitter winter weather sadly claimed the lives of hundreds of Texas dogs as they perished unnecessarily, chained up outside. As a volunteer for Texas Humane Legislation Network, we received many phone calls and pictures from across Texas of dogs freezing and dying. That is why the Texas Legislature must pass HB 873 / SB 474 to protect dogs kept outdoors and the public around them. The legislation ensures dogs have adequate shelter from extreme temperatures, access to drinking water, and can move around without being trapped in standing water. HB 873 will fix the current, broken law, allow law enforcement to intervene in dangerous situations, and protect Texans and Texas animals.