Owners Would Pay For Seized Pet Care Under Nebraska Bill

The owners of pets and horses seized by law enforcement would be required to pay for the animals' care under a measure introduced in the Nebraska Legislature.

The owners of pets and horses seized by law enforcement would be required to pay for the animals' care under a measure introduced in the Nebraska Legislature.

The bill (LB1084) by state Sen. Russ Karpisek of Wilber calls for a hearing to be held within 10 days of an animal's seizure. At the hearing, the court will decide whether to return the animal to its owner or harborer. If the animal is not returned, the court will order the owner to pay all expenses related to the care of the animal, including shelter, food and veterinary care.

The bill allows the court to consider the person's ability to pay the expenses.

Should the person be found not guilty of any offenses related to the animal, all money paid for the animal's care would be returned to the person.