A new OH law making it a felony to abuse a companion animal in the state of OH goes into effect Tuesday.
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House Bill 60, also known as “Goddards Law” was signed into law back in June by OH governor John Kasich back in June – today that law went into effect. Depriving a pet of food, water or shelter or inflicting long-term pain is also a violation of this law.
Those include dogs, cats, or any other type of animal living indoors. According to OH law, a fifth-degree felony can garner a prison sentence of between 6 and 12 months, but doesn’t necessarily require prison time. If the service dog or horse is killed, a mandatory prison term will be enforced, as well as a fine.
House Bill 60 is also known as Goddard’s Law, named for long-time Cleveland weatherman Dick Goddard, who spent years advocating stronger penalties for animal abuse.
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The measure further requires state officials to develop resources to help veterinarians identify clients or potential clients who may abuse opioids and may use their pets to get opioids.
