CT HB06303

Municipal and regional dog pounds may contract with public or private nonprofit animal rescue organizations to pay for veterinary treatment of injured, sick, or diseased animals, with no costs accruing to the municipality.

Animal control officers determine which animals need veterinary treatment, and rescue organizations must select a veterinarian and take custody of the animal within 24 hours of receiving a treatment request.

Dog pound facilities must publish animal descriptions in newspapers or post photographs/descriptions on public Internet websites and national pet adoption sites, except in cases involving pending litigation, feral animals, or safety concerns.

The Department of Agriculture's State Animal Control Division must investigate complaints about improper care within 24 hours (or next business day if received on a weekend) and take necessary action to secure proper care.

Dog pound facilities, municipalities, animal control officers, rescue organizations, and veterinarians are shielded from civil liability for treatment arrangements unless actions are performed in a wanton, reckless, malicious, or willful manner.