By: Tracey Zysk – August, 2014
Senator Bruce Tarr’s office released this press release earlier this week and the Valley Patriot family and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts animal lovers couldn’t be happier. Once again, we cannot express our gratitude to Senator Bruce Tarr and all he does to keep our pets safe!
Senator Tarr’s Statement on the Passage of the PAWS Act:
Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding the Senate engrossing S.2345, An Act protecting animal welfare and safety, AKA the PAWS Act, by a unanimous vote of 40-0:
“After several months of seeking meaningful and appropriate punishments for those who commit heinous acts of abuse against animals, it is great news that the PAWS Act has been engrossed by the members of the Senate. This bipartisan measure, which has been widely supported by legislators, law enforcement personnel, and citizens, is an important step in updating the state’s woefully inadequate animal abuse laws.
The case of Puppy Doe, a dog who was discarded inhumanely at a Quincy park and suffering from a stab wound to her eye; the splitting of her tongue to look like a serpent; dislocated shoulder, elbow, wrist, and ankle; burned; and starved, is one of many examples of animal cruelty within this state. While some individuals will sadly continue to abuse animals, this bill will not only prevent some from being treated so cruelly, but will also provide meaningful punishments to those who decide to commit such acts.
The Senate engrossing the PAWS Act will enable public safety officials with the proper tools to confront the issue of animal abuse head on by:
• Increasing the possible fine of committing animal abuse from $2,500 to $5,000 for a first offense, and up to $10,000 for a second and subsequent offenses;
• Raising the maximum time in prison from 5 years to 7 years for a first offense and up to 10 years for a second and subsequent offenses;
• Requiring veterinarians to report suspected animal abuse (similar to the requirement of medical staff who suspect child abuse); and
• :Creating a special taskforce of experts in law enforcement, animal protection, veterinary, legal professionals, and industry professionals to review methods to prevent animal abuse and punish those who commit animal abuse.
Tracey Zysk, owner of Wiggles & Jiggles Pet Care in North Andover MA is a local pet care professional. She has been featured on local radio, tv and newspapers educating the general public on animal care and animal health & wellness. Tracey is a proud supporter of Police, Fire & Military K9 units and National Award winner of the Platinum PAW award. Tracey may be reached at wigglewalk@comcast.net. Become a fan on facebook at Wiggles & Jiggles Pet Care.