Firefighters and emergency medical responders in New York State have gotten the green light to remove animals from unattended cars if the animals are in danger. Governor Cuomo signed legislation that expanded the number of responders legally allowed to remove the animals.
The legislation was designed to get animals in danger out quickly, especially in areas where police or animal control availability is limited. The law applies when animals are left in the car in extremely warm or extremely cold temperatures.
"Leaving a pet in a stifling hot or freezing cold car is inhumane and potentially dangerous, and emergency responders should have the ability to remove them if necessary," Governor Cuomo said.
Commissioner of Erie County Emergency Services Dan Neaverth says it's a "phenomenal" new law to save a pet's life, but the 'devil is in the detail'.