California lawmakers’ focus on dogs

Sacramento —- Motorists, beware: Puppy hit-and-run could soon be a crime.

A state lawmaker has proposed slapping California motorists with a fine and possible jail time if they flee the scene after hitting a jaywalking dog, cat or any other pet or farm animal.

Democrat Mike Eng’s measure would require that drivers try to provide medical aid to an injured animal and notify the owner or animal-control authorities.

The assemblyman said he wrote the bill out of respect for the central role pets can play in family life, noting that he got the idea from a constituent who lost a beloved family dog.

He said he hopes to “start a dialogue” and set a precedent.

New York has a similar law, as do Germany and Singapore.