WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) - New laws aimed at strengthening animal welfare in Delaware are set to take effect.
One of four bills to be signed by Gov. Jack Markell on Thursday gives the Department of Health and Social Services oversight over animal shelters, including investigating complaints, and requires shelter inspections at least once a year.
Another bill ensures that animal control officers and animal cruelty investigators are adequately trained and certified.
A third piece of legislation protects animals seized in animal fighting cases from automatic euthanasia, instead allowing for their evaluation for possible adoption.
The fourth bill clarifies when animal control officials can impound a dog suspected of being dangerous or potentially dangerous.
