New Jersey Dogs May Get Their Own Lawyers But They Need Your Help

I'm an animal lover like so many of you so I love sharing this post! This is more news that New Jersey can be proud of...a proposed new law (that passed unanimously) would allow judges to appoint lawyers for animals that have been mistreated or abused. That is freaking awesome.

How could you not love this face?!?!

Shannon's Red Goldendoodle puppy, Fozzie Photo credit: Shannon Holly

Just to know that our furry friends could be more protected across our state is pretty amazing! The bill, which passed unanimously in the Senate earlier this year is still awaiting an Assembly vote, but it is lookin' good. If passed, it would create a Courtroom Animal Advocate Program. This would do a few things...the mere organization of this should make an abuser think twice before hurting a precious animal because to lay it out plainly, they'll come for you.

Here's how it would work: lawyers and third-year law students would be able to volunteer to be a liaison between the court and the abused animal. This would literally give our animals a voice. This way animals don't get lost in the mix as the case moves thorough the legal system. Leave it to Jersey to start a movement to protect our animals...just one more reason to be Jersey proud!

If this means as much to you as it does for me, you can help! Be sure to call your state legislative representatives and let then know that you stand behind the New Jersey CAAP program. Every call makes a difference!

RANKED: Here Are the 63 Smartest Dog Breeds

Does your loyal pup's breed make the list? Read on to see if you'll be bragging to the neighbors about your dog's intellectual prowess the next time you take your fur baby out for a walk. Don't worry: Even if your dog's breed doesn't land on the list, that doesn't mean he's not a good boy--some traits simply can't be measured.

10 Exotic Animals That Are Legal To Own In New Jersey

Who woulda thought?

LOOK: Here are the pets banned in each state

Because the regulation of exotic animals is left to states, some organizations, including The Humane Society of the United States, advocate for federal, standardized legislation that would ban owning large cats, bears, primates, and large poisonous snakes as pets.

Read on to see which pets are banned in your home state, as well as across the nation.