Steven G. Bazil, Principal of Bazil McNulty and longtime animal advocate, was pleased to learn the companion animal legislation he drafted and proposed to Senator Andrew Dinniman - 19th District, was introduced to the PA Senate for consideration on March 1, 2013. "We worked closely with the Senator and his staff to draft this legislation. I am thankful for the Senator's support and efforts to have the legislation adopted by the Commonwealth." stated Bazil.
The companion legislation would allow a pet owner to recover non-economic damages for the loss of a pet due to a third party's intentional or unintentional act under certain circumstances. Currently, pets are viewed as mere property and damages are limited to the economic value of the pet. "This is an important step towards recognizing the evolving role of domestic cats and dogs in our family structure. It is not uncommon for pet owners to develop deep emotional bonds with their animal companions and our laws need to reflect this." stated Bazil.