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Ogan Bill Offers Animals Alternative Care
House Bill 372 Expands Range of Options for Treatment

(JUNEAU) - Saying a wide range of medical treatments can be as beneficial for animals as it is for humans, Rep. Scott Ogan (R-Palmer) has introduced House Bill 372, which would expand the range of allowable treatment of animals beyond traditional veterinary practices.

In Alaska, people have the right to choose their own health care regardless whether it is through a medical doctor or through one of today's alternative health practitioners, Ogan said. But this same right does not extend to an individual's pets or farm animals, which are personal property under state law.

"The intent of this bill is to afford the same 'choice of treatment' to the owner of an animal that is now afforded to a human patient," said Ogan. "Regardless of whether alternative medicine actually heals, or just creates a placebo healing affect, the bottom line is that a human being gets to choose the type of treatment he wants. This choice should also be afforded when it comes to the care and treatment of someone's animals."

State law currently restricts medical care of animals to veterinarians, or in certain cases, to the owner of the animal. HB 372 would make it legal for owners to seek alternative therapies from other care providers, including massage, chiropractic, teletouch therapy, or the practitioners of any of a wide range of alternative therapies.

"It goes without saying that any such treatment should be performed with the least amount of stress to the animal and that the animal is still protected against cruelty under Alaska law," said Ogan.

HB 372 was referred to the House Labor and Commerce Committee.

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