Dog and Cat Rescue bill introduced to legislature

A bill introduced in the 2018 legislative session was re-introduced this year.

On Thursday, Representative Elaine Smith of Pocatello introduced the Dog and Cat Rescue Act.

The bill would protect first responders if they break into someone’s car to save a cat or dog from “imminent danger.”, death, or “serious bodily harm”.

The bill comes after Eastern Idaho law enforcement officials reported finding an increasing number of dogs locked in cars.

“This would protect first responders who could be firefighters, medical service providers, law enforcement from a civil liability or prosecution if they do save an animal which is a dog or a cat,” said Representative Smith.

The bill similar to this one that was proposed last year failed.

Those against the bill say it was too broad.

This bill is limited to just dogs and cats.