This bill mandates specific consumer disclosures regarding rabies testing for dead domestic companion animals and establishes optional training for veterinarians. It amends existing law to require health officials or veterinarians to provide the animal's owner with both a paper and electronic copy of the Department of Health's VPH-35 Rabies Testing Notification Form before any rabies testing is conducted. The notification must include details about the necessity of the testing, the protocols for handling and disposing of the animal's body, and the consequences of misrepresenting this information, which is classified as a violation of the consumer fraud act. Additionally, the bill stipulates that documentation of verbal or electronic notifications must be kept for three years, replacing the previous six-month requirement.

Furthermore, the bill directs the Division of Consumer Affairs to create a pamphlet and poster that inform pet owners about rabies vaccines and testing protocols, which veterinarians must distribute and display. It also establishes an optional trauma-informed mental health protection training certification program for veterinarians and their staff, focusing on mental health issues within the veterinary field. This program aims to promote safety and support for both pet owners and veterinary professionals, with certification awarded upon completion.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:4-86.2