Bucco Introduces Measure to Help Rescue Unwanted Pets

Senator Anthony M. Bucco introduced the “New Jersey Safe Haven for Protection of Domestic Companion Animals Act” to save pets from abandonment.

“Sometimes life can throw curveballs, which may leave one in a situation where they are unable to properly care for their pet,” said Bucco (R-25). “Our furry friends deserve to be loved, rescued, and re-homed, not abandoned on the side of the road, or worse. Allowing animal shelters, pounds, veterinary hospitals, and police stations to accept unwanted pets will help prevent animal neglect and save the lives of companion animals across the Garden State.”

Bucco’s legislation, S-2075, would permit an individual to anonymously surrender their unwanted pet to staff at any shelter, pound, veterinary hospital, or police station in New Jersey. That individual would not be liable for the care or disposition of the animal.

“Surrendering one’s pet is the compassionate choice,” added Bucco. “Giving this option to pet owners will give their dogs and cats a new leash on life.”

Under this bill, designated drop-off locations cannot refuse to accept any domestic companion animal.

The legislation would also require the Commissioner of Health to create a public education and information program to circulate information regarding the ‘New Jersey Safe Haven for Protection of Domestic Companion Animals Act’ to every municipality, shelter, pound, veterinary hospital, police station, and public school with students in grades three through 12.

Bucco has championed numerous humane laws in the Legislature. He is a sponsor of River’s Law, which would allow prosecutors to charge certain animal abusers with an escalated second-degree crime.