HB 21-1160 Summary

• Establishes requirements for animal shelters and pet animal rescues to provide dogs and cats with timely veterinary care to prevent unnecessary pain and suffering.

• Mandates that shelters and rescues address the behavioral needs of dogs and cats to prevent stereotypic or self-mutilating behavior resulting from improper housing or care.

• Prohibits the import or sale of dogs or cats by pet animal facilities unless they have a veterinary health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination if over six months old.

• Declares that homeless dogs and cats (excluding unsocialized feral cats) deserve appropriate shelter, care, and enrichment, and establishes socially conscious sheltering practices as a goal for Colorado.

• Takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly, subject to referendum petition provisions under the Colorado constitution.