Yesterday, the Arizona Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Energy, and Water considered multiple bills regarding animals. As reported in a previous alert, this includes bills regulating dogs outdoors and expanding the laws regarding animals seized on suspicion of cruelty.
SB 1047 amends current cruelty laws, including providing new reasonable provisions regarding shelters for dogs kept primarily outdoors. AKC also appreciates that the bill is very clear that these new provisions only apply to dogs kept primarily outside, and provides exemptions for hunting, training, competitions and events, and other activities.
As introduced, the bill also included a new definition of “extreme weather”, defined by a heat advisory, certain weather warnings (such as a monsoon, dust storm, etc.), and when the temperature is below 32 degrees or over 100 degrees. Although in this measure it only applied to when proper bedding was required, we were concerned about the definition being used in the future to restrict when dogs could be outside, without consideration for the needs and abilities of specific breeds. The committee removed the specific temperatures from the definition.
SB 1047 now goes to the Senate Rules Committee.
SB 1204 as introduced sought to expand current problematic law relating to seizure of animals when the owner is suspected of cruelty. AKC asked for clarifications of certain provisions, including who would be responsible for caring for animals after they are seized. Yesterday, the bill was held in committee.
AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) continues to monitor legislation in Arizona impacting dog owners and will provide updates as they are available. For more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.