Shekarchi & Walaska legislation that gives RISPCA custody of seized dogs that are trained to attack or fight signed by Governor
STATE HOUSE — Rep. K. Joseph Shekarchi’s and Sen. William A. Walaska’s legislation that gives the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals custody of seized dogs was signed by the Governor into law during a ceremonial bill signing.
“These poor animals are victims and deserve to be treated and cared for like victims, not the unredeemable monsters that some claim them to be,” said Representative Shekarchi. “They are not beyond saving and we should not abandon them due to the horrific and unconceivable actions of their previous owners. I’d like to thank my colleagues in the General Assembly and Governor Raimondo for giving these dogs a second shot at a good and loving life.”
“The Rhode Island SPCA, which is the third oldest humane society in the United States, has a proven track record when it comes to taking care of abused animals,” said Senator Walaska. “Those dogs that have been trained in dog fighting or to engage in unprovoked attacks deserve to be cared for and assessed by an organization that specializes in dealing with the effects of animal cruelty.”
Introduced by Representative Shekarchi (D-Dist. 23, Warwick) and Senator Walaska (D-Dist. 30, Warwick), the legislation, (2015-H 5585 / 2015-S 0347), mandates that any dog lawfully seized as a result of dog fighting or trained, tormented, badgered, baited, or used for the purpose of unprovoked attacks upon human beings or domestic animals be placed in the care of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for the dog’s physical care and suitability for transfer to an appropriate rescue organization or adoptive home.
The Animal Legal Defense Fund has ranked Rhode Island the 9th best state in the nation in its 2014 U.S. Animal Protection Laws Ranking Report, which surveys animal protection laws of all U.S. states and territories.
The 9th place ranking puts Rhode Island second best of the New England states, behind Maine, which ranked 2nd nationally, and ahead of Massachusetts, the next-best New England state at 13th.