Establishes award of damages for pain and suffering to owner of pet cat or dog that dies due to malpractice or negligence by veterinarian, veterinary hospital, or other veterinary facility.

This bill (A 4138) requires courts to award pet owners at least $5,000 in damages for pain and suffering when a veterinarian, veterinary hospital, or facility is found liable for the death of a cat or dog due to malpractice or negligence. It supplements existing reimbursement for the pet’s monetary value and veterinary costs. The award applies only to cats and dogs, not other pets, and is determined by the court after liability is established. The bill takes immediate effect upon passage.