Harsher animal abuse laws to be proposed

Jace Radke

Friday, Oct. 13, 2000 | 10:42 a.m.

The recent abuse of two pet dogs may lead to stronger animal abuse laws in Nevada, according to the president of a nonprofit animal organization.

Ann Herrington, who runs Media Partners for Pets, says that Republican state Sen. Ann O'Connell will propose a bill in January to make animal abuse a felony in Nevada.

"Right now animal abuse is a gross misdemeanor that can carry a $2,000 fine and up to one year in jail," Herrington said. "We'd like to see it become a felony with a fine from $5,000 to $10,000 and at least the possibility of three to five years of jail time."

A spokesman for O'Connell said that the bill is already being drafted and will seek to increase the penalties for animal abuse. O'Connell has reportedly been in contact with the owner of Niko, a dog that was severely burned by acid and still remains hospitalized.

Another dog, Blu, the bulldog mascot of Centennial High School, was taken on Sept. 27 and forced to fight a pit bull before being left tied to a stake overnight on the 50-yard line of Centennial's football field.

Blu and her owners, as well as Niko's owner, are expected to take part in the Media Partners for Pets adoption day Sunday at West Flamingo Park, 6255 W. Flamingo Road.

More than 100 animals from the Dewey Animal Shelter and the Nevada SPCA will be up for adoption between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the park. The event sponsored by Veterinary Centers of America and Tobin Automotive, will also include a pet costume contest, beauty contest, a demonstration by the Metro Police K-9 unit and information on caring for Dalmatians.