CT SB00228

Allows owners of companion animals to recover economic damages when an animal is unlawfully killed or injured, including veterinary expenses, fair monetary value of the animal, and burial costs.

Permits courts to award additional non-economic damages up to $7,500 for loss of companionship based on length of ownership, use for companionship purposes, and the animal's temperament.

Requires the Commissioner of Agriculture to submit a report to the General Assembly by January 1, 2017 examining whether current dog tethering laws adequately protect animal health and welfare.

Report must analyze whether section 22-350a should be amended to require adequate shelter access for tethered dogs and include recommendations on tethering duration restrictions.

Takes effect July 1, 2016 for damages provisions and upon passage for the report requirement.