1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge your support for Senate Bill 5833, which will be heard by the Senate Committee on Law and Justice on Monday, January 19. This legislation provides a commonsense solution that protects pet safety while respecting responsible dog ownership. Current Washington state law prohibits leaving a vehicle unattended with the engine running, creating an unintended consequence for dog owners who need to briefly leave their pets in vehicles during travel. Senate Bill 5833 addresses this by allowing a 30-minute exemption when running air conditioning or heating is necessary to protect a pet from excessive temperatures. The bill maintains safety requirements by mandating that vehicles remain locked with brakes properly set. This legislation is particularly important for those who travel with their dogs to events, competitions, and activities throughout our state. Dog exhibitors, handlers, and participants in American Kennel Club events often face situations where they must briefly leave their vehicle to register, check in, or handle other necessary tasks. Without this exemption, they face an impossible choice between breaking the law or potentially exposing their dogs to dangerous temperature extremes. The American Kennel Club supports this bill because it balances animal welfare with practical needs. Dogs can suffer heat stroke in as little as 15 minutes in warm weather, and hypothermia poses similar risks in cold conditions. This 30-minute window allows owners to maintain safe temperatures for their pets during brief absences while traveling. I ask that you support Senate Bill 5833 when it comes before the committee. This legislation protects dogs from temperature-related harm while providing reasonable flexibility for responsible pet owners. It represents thoughtful policy that prioritizes animal welfare without creating unnecessary burdens on those who travel with their pets.