Dogs are finally getting the protection they deserve. At least in one state. Signed into law in Pennsylvania, House Bill 1238 (better known as Libre’s Law) makes it a felony for residents to leave their dogs outside in the cold.
The law specifically states that dogs cannot be left outside in temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 30 minutes at a time.
Any resident breaking this law can face felony animal cruelty charges of up to 7 years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
As it should be, leaving a dog outside in the cold for too long is now considered neglect and abuse in the eyes of the law. With winter just around the corner, residents are being encouraged to call 911 immediately if they see any animals being mistreated.
Hopefully this prompts more states to step up and do the right thing by putting this law into effect.
Note: Officer Tobin accidentally misquotes the law in the video when saying 20 minutes rather than 30 minutes.