Pets Could be Included in Domestic Violence Law

One's pets would be covered under the state's domestic violence statute, under legislation passed by the Senate on May 15.

The bill bill provides judges "another option when dealing with domestic violence cases," according to a committee that unanimously recommended the change. "By allowing judges to determine custody arrangements for household animals, abusers will have less leverage over their victims."

It would allow the court to grant custody of a household pet to a victim of domestic violence and "to issue an order to ensure the abuser not be permitted to abuse or dispose of the animal," according to Rep. Renny Cushing, D-Hampton, in a report to the House earlier this year. "Passage of this bill will prevent further emotional damage to families wracked by domestic violence."

The bill would take effect immediately, if the New Hampshire House of Representatives concurs with a small amendment and Gov. Maggie Hassan agrees with it.

The Associated Press, via NECN, reported that opponents of the bill maintain it is unnecessary because of existing law against cruelty to animals.

Read the bill as introduced in the House.