Garden State Times

Senator Robert Singer has put forth a new bill that would enable veterinarians to rehome animals instead of euthanizing them, in specific circumstances. Singer, a member of the Republican party representing the 30th district, stated, “Pet ownership can provide a lifetime of love and companionship, but it comes with a lot of responsibility.” He emphasized the importance of providing alternatives to euthanasia for pets with correctable behavioral issues.

According to the proposed legislation, veterinarians would be permitted to transfer ownership of animals to suitable homes or shelters rather than proceeding with euthanasia, under the following conditions:

- The animal is in good physical health, and the request for euthanasia is due to behavioral problems.

- The veterinarian believes that the animal's behavior is not a permanent threat to public safety and can be rehabilitated.

- The animal's owner is informed by the veterinarian before the animal is placed in a new home or shelter that rehabilitation is possible.

The bill aims to amend the existing "New Jersey Unretrieved Animal Act" and grant veterinarians the authority to rehome animals that meet the specified criteria. This initiative seeks to offer a second chance to pets with behavioral issues that can be addressed through training and rehabilitation.

Individuals interested in reviewing the complete text of the bill can access it online. For further inquiries or to discuss this legislation with Senator Singer, individuals are encouraged to reach out to Jonathan Azzara in the SRO communications office via email at [email protected].