A bill is advancing in the Michigan House of Representatives that would allow a person to receive “non-economic” damages for mental anguish, fright and shock, and loss of companionship caused by the injury or death of their service animal.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) encourages Michigan residents to contact your State Representative today to express your opposition to House Bill 5525. Visit https://www.house.mi.gov/#findARepresentativeForm and type in your address to get your State Representative’s name and contact information.
AKC understand the tremendous value and importance of service dogs, and agrees with the provisions requiring reimbursement for the cost of the service dog – including veterinary care, training, and any other damage to medical or other equipment. We are opposed, however, to the awarding of non-economic damages for harm to these animals.
Although such feel-good concepts may sound benign, they not only represent a potential change in the legal status of animals (animal rights), but will also lead to significant increases in the cost of care for all animals, ultimately undermining the ability of pet owners to care for their pets.
Review AKC’s previous alert for more information and talking points.
AKC Government Relations (GR) will continue to provide updates on Michigan legislation, as necessary. For more information on this or other legislative issues in Michigan, contact AKC GR at 919-816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org.