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KACCA President on Pre-Filed Pet Safety Bill

Marjorie A. Bull/123rf Stock Photo

A Louisville state senator is hoping to see Kentucky's so-called “Look Before You Lock” law expanded to included domestic animals.

Sen. Morgan McGarvey has pre-filed the bill for consideration in the 2018 legislative session. It would provide civil immunity for anyone who causes damage to a vehicle while trying to free a pet.

Louisville Metro Animal Services Director Ozzie Gibson says his staff responds to about 300 calls each year in which animals are locked in vehicles.

“My lieutenant, who’s been here about 12 years, can never remember us responding to an animal that is already deceased in a car," Gibson said. "He said there’s probably been a handful over the last several years where had we not gotten there and done something the animal probably would have passed away.”

Gibson says he supports anything that can save animals’ lives and keep them safe.

The director of Louisville Metro Animal Services does express some concern about a provision that would allow an animal to be removed from a vehicle and taken from the scene under certain emergency conditions. The current “Look Before You Lock” law pertains to removing minor children from locked hot vehicles.

Stu Johnson is a reporter/producer at WEKU in Lexington, Kentucky.
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