Pets could soon be protected from domestic abusers - CBS4 - WHBF Quad Cities, IL-IA News Weather Sports

Pets could soon be protected from domestic abusers

By:  Newsroom@cbs4qc.com

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) A Fort Dodge lawmaker has introduced a bill that would help victims of domestic violence protect their pets from abuse.
        Sen. Daryl Beall proposed the legislation, which got its first hearing last week.
        An abuse victim urged Beall to introduce the bill, noting that abusers often try to hurt victims by lashing out at their pets.
        The bill would allow domestic abuse victims of domestic violence to include pets under a protective order, making it illegal for an abuser to be in contact with the animal.
        Republican Sen. Kent Sorenson, of Milo, says his only concern is to define a pet to ensure protections don't extend to livestock.
        If Sorenson supports the bill, it likely will receive a full judiciary committee hearing next week.