by Jo Ingles
The Ohio House has passed a bill to help pets who need emergency medical care.
It’s rare that the House votes unanimously for anything, but lawmakers all agreed on this bill. Its sponsor, Republican State Rep. Tim Ginter, said the legislation allows emergency medical personnel to provide treatment to animals.
“While there are clear guidelines regarding the treatment of humans, EMTs are unsure as to whether they can provide basic stabilizing care to any injured animals at the scene,” Ginter said.
Ginter’s bill would allow EMTs to provide services like mouth to snout resuscitation, splint broken bones, open and maintain airways and administer oxygen. And it would protect EMTs from legal action for providing medical care to pets.