California Lawmakers Are Considering A Bill Of Rights For Cats & Dogs

California pets could soon have their own Bill of Rights, according to a new report from the Sacramento Bee.

The paper says a state lawmaker has introduced a bill that would put a dog and cat bill of rights into state law. It would require every animal shelter and animal rescue group to post a copy of these rights on their premises. Failing to post a copy could lead to a $250 fine after the first warning.

The bill, Assembly Bill 1881, was introduced by Assemblyman Miguel Santiago, D-Los Angeles, and states seven fundamental rights that every dog and cat living in California would have.

According to the Bee, it includes the following provisions:

• freedom from exploitation, cruelty, neglect, and abuse
• a life of comfort, free of fear and anxiety
• daily mental stimulation and appropriate exercise
• nutritious food, sanitary water and shelter in an appropriate and safe environment
• preventive and therapeutic health care
• proper identification through tags, microchips or other humane means
• spaying and neutering to prevent unwanted litters

While the bill does not punish Californians who might violate one of the rights, Santiago believes the bill could help people avoid animal cruelty.

“Cruelty can also be not taking a dog out and walking him, socializing him and spending time with him,” Santiago told the Bee.

The bill is currently pending a legislative committee assignment.