Tennessee Makes It Legal For Good Samaritans To Rescue Dogs Trapped In Cars

I am, without a doubt, an unabashed dog lover. No matter what breed, size, or temperament, when I see a dog, I simply melt into a puddle of goo.

So when I see a dog in stress or pain, it absolutely breaks my heart. Just like children, pups are completely innocent and totally defenseless, and they depend on us for their health and well-being.

That's why I was thrilled when I heard of the bill Tennessee law makers have just passed. It falls under the Good Samaritan Law, and it protects dogs cruelly trapped in hot cars.

Now, instead of simply dialing 911 and feeling helpless until law enforcement arrives, concerned citizens can actually do something to save a dog in need.

That's why it's important to SHARE this story with friends and family. All states need to adopt this life-saving law so dogs everywhere will suffer no longer!

Tennessee law has just put into effect House Bill 357. It might not sound very exciting, but dog lovers everywhere will be thrilled to know what this means for pups.

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Winnipeg Sun

As an extension of the Good Samaritan Law, people are now allowed to break into cars to free dogs that have been locked inside!

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NRMA Blog

Under the original law, only children were allowed to be rescued from hot, locked cars. But now, concerned citizens can now release overheating dogs as well.

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Care2

According to the ASPCA, temperatures inside a car can reach up to 120 °F on an 85 °F day — even with the windows cracked.

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BarkPost

Tennessee Representative David Hawk was inspired to pass this bill when he heard a very sad tale about a dog's unnecessary death.

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News 1130

When a passerby noticed a dog trapped inside a car, he immediately called the police. But while waiting for help, the dog unfortunately passed away.

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Dove Pet Care

As David told The Johnson City Press, "It's good for folks to know that they have this ability to take action should a possible tragic event happen."

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Flickr/Alex Pepperhill

What do you think should happen to people who leave their dogs inside of hot cars? Let us know below!

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WikiMedia

Please SHARE if you think all states should adopt this law!

h/t: Daily Mail