Noret, Brien bill would acknowledge loss and grief in lawsuits regarding negligent death of pets
STATE HOUSE — In response to a case where a dog allegedly died from veterinary negligence, Rep. Thomas E. Noret (D-Dist. 25, Coventry, West Warwick) and Rep. Jon D. Brien (I-Woonsocket, North Smithfield) have introduced a bill that would create a cause of action for the intentional or negligent injury or death of a pet.
The legislation (2025-H 5926) comes in the wake of an incident in Lincoln where a St. Bernard puppy allegedly died after surgical instruments were left inside her body. The House Committee on Judiciary will hear testimony on the legislation Tuesday, March 4, at the rise of the House (about 5 p.m.) in the House Lounge on the second floor of the State House.
“Our pets are so much more than mere property,” said Representative Noret, “they are members of our family. Anyone who has suffered the loss of their pet knows just how deeply that grief can be felt. When your pet dies because of the negligence of somebody else, the law should provide a better remedy than the valuation of property.”
Under the legislation, the individual causing the injury or death of your pet would be liable for up to a maximum of $7,500 in noneconomic damages. This would include compensation for the loss of the society, companionship, love and affection of your pet.
In the Lincoln case, an Ocean State veterinarian performed a necropsy on the dog to determine her cause of death, during which hemostats and gauze from a surgery at a different practice were found twisted up in her intestines.
“Whether it is medical professionals or the public at large, there is a standard of care that must be met.” said Representative Brien. “We cannot simply replace a pet like an appliance or a piece of furniture. Our pets are not just objects that we own, but rather they are an integral part of the family.”
Representatives Noret and Brien strongly believe that “this legislation will allow the courts to consider the grief and loss caused by intentional or negligent conduct to an individual’s or family’s beloved pet, just as it would any other member of the family.”
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