A304

Establishes award of damages for pain and suffering to owner of pet cat or dog that dies due to malpractice or negligence by veterinarian, veterinary hospital, or other veterinary facility.

Introduced·1/13/26
Introduced Text

New Jersey A304 allows pet owners to claim damages for pain and suffering if their cat or dog dies due to veterinarian malpractice or negligence.

New Jersey A304 amends the state's laws to provide pet owners with the right to seek damages for pain and suffering if their cat or dog dies due to malpractice or negligence by a veterinarian, veterinary hospital, or other veterinary facility. In such cases, the owner can claim not only the monetary value of the pet and any veterinary care costs but also a minimum of $5,000 in damages for the emotional distress caused by the pet's death. This compensation is determined and awarded by the court that finds the veterinarian, veterinary hospital, or other facility liable for the pet's death.

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Where it stands

Current
Regulated Professions Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

Jan 13

Assembly

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Regulated Professions Committee