Jacqueline Texier-Calhoun

As pet parents and concerned citizens, my husband and I see a real need for mental health workers to have greater latitude in reporting animal abuse in domestic situations. We've recently moved from California to Plymouth, NH. In my experience as a volunteer at animal rescue shelters in the densely populated city of San Jose, I witnessed dogs of various breeds who were brought in critically injured -- not from accidents but from intentional infliction of pain. Many times, the family dog intervened to save a child from being brutally attacked. Dogs are known to be very protective of small children or other vulnerable (such as disabled) family household members. It's only because mental health workers promptly reported these animal victims of domestic violence, that our staff could treat their serious wounds, In many cases, the dogs (and some household cats) would have died otherwise. Naturally, any children victimized were reported as well. The protocol is seamless between human and animal abuse. A crime is a crime -- no matter the species of victim! This is a perfect opportunity for your committee to support HB 1438. Now that my family lives here, as Granite Staters we want to be part of the legislative process that truly benefits our community. For your reference, here's current California Law on domestic violence: "In California, mental health workers are required to report suspected child abuse, animal domestic violence, and other forms of abuse to the appropriate authorities. This requirement is part of the state's mandated reporting laws, which aim to protect vulnerable populations and ensure that any known or suspected abuse is reported." Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you about the progress on this House Bill. Jacqueline Texier-Calhoun Plymouth, New Hampshire