Florida may add animal injuries to domestic violence definition

TALLAHASSEE, FLA. — The definition of domestic violence in Florida may be expanded to include animals, according to new legislation pre-filed in the Senate Sept. 19. If passed, the bill would consider the infliction or attempted infliction of physical injury or even the fear of causing harm to an animal owned or possessed by another family or household member an act of domestic violence. As a result, the court could order an injunction for protection granting a petitioner exclusive care and control of the animals. The legislation did not specifically address the role veterinarians would play in reporting suspected abuse.