Judge discusses new laws for rescuing pets in hot cars
- WISH-TV Indianapolis
- 3 minutes ago
- 1 min read
“Pet Pals TV” host Patty Spitler joined News 8’s Stacy Schooler and Superior Court Judge Gary Miller to discuss the new changes in the Indiana law as it concerns pets left in hot cars.
According to Indiana law, previously, breaking into a vehicle to rescue a domestic animal could leave the rescuer responsible for half the repair costs. But now, Hoosiers are fully protected from criminal and civil liability for property damage if they meet the legal requirements.
“If you come upon a dog, cat, or other domestic animal as defined by Indiana law in a closed car and the temperature is hot, you as a bystander can break the window and try to save that animal from that danger of being overheated,” Miller said. “But, you have to do some things to protect yourself.”
Miller explained that you have to try and find the owner quickly, notify police, and stay by the vehicle. He suggests to save the animal first, then notify police.
