A female pit bull has spent over half of her life at the shelter after her owner was charged with animal abuse in September 2022. Utah law views animals as property, requiring pets to stay at shelters until abuse cases are resolved. However, under HB461, sponsored by Verona Mauga, pets involved in abuse cases could be placed in foster homes or adopted, easing overcrowding in animal shelters statewide. The bill would also hold convicted animal abusers responsible for expenses related to seized pets.
Salt Lake County Animal Services Executive Director Talia Butler supports the bill, stating that it would save money and improve the well-being of animals. Currently, shelters and taxpayers bear the costs for mistreated animals, with an estimated expense of $7,300 per year per animal. Field manager Karl Carpenter emphasized the importance of emptying shelters to ensure the health and well-being of the animals.
HB461 passed through the House and is awaiting a Senate vote. If approved, it could have a significant impact on the treatment of animals in abuse cases and alleviate the burden on shelters and taxpayers.
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