First responders will be able to rescue and treat pets more quickly in emergency situations after Gov. Scott Walker signed into law a new bill last week.
Previously, a licensed veterinarian was required to perform treatment, forcing emergency personnel to wait for such an individual to care for injured animals.
Though they will still have to treat any injured humans first, the Save Our Pets legislation will now allow firefighters and other emergency crew members to treat cats, dogs
The bill’s sponsors argued that many pets injured in emergency situations like house fires, which cause the deaths of about 40,000 pets annually, may require immediate and rapid medical attention. That care, they argue, can only be performed by the first personnel on the scene.
“The physical trauma that someone avoids during a car accident, house fire or other emergency situation may be offset by the emotional trauma they suffer from injuries or even death to a beloved pet,” said state Sen. Robert Cowles, R-Green Bay. “This bill will provide first responders with the legal authority they need to continue rendering aid to families throughout Wisconsin, regardless of whether the family member walks on two legs or four.”