Bill > H657

This bill, titled "Duke's Rescue Act," establishes minimum standards of care for companion animals, defined as domestic dogs and cats, by adding a new section to North Carolina General Statutes. It mandates that owners provide adequate care, exercise, feed, shelter, space, water, and appropriate veterinary treatment, including emergency care. However, exceptions to the adequate shelter and space requirements are provided for specific activities like lawful hunting, dog training, shepherding, herding, agricultural work, and recreational camping. The bill defines these terms comprehensively, outlining specific conditions for each, such as the quality and frequency of food and water, and the construction and maintenance of shelters, especially during extreme weather. "Extreme weather" is defined to include severe weather warnings, heat advisories, and temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Violations are classified as a Class 3 misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class 2 misdemeanor for subsequent offenses. The bill also allows existing local ordinances on companion animal care to remain in effect and permits new ordinances that meet or exceed these state standards, and appropriates funds for public education on these new standards.