AKC Urges Support of Bill Protecting Dogs in Vehicles in Washington State

The Washington State Senate Committee on Law and Justice is expected to hear a bill on Monday, January 19, that will protect dogs who may temporarily need to be kept in an unattended vehicle.

AKC supports this bill that will allow owners flexibility should they need to leave a dog in a vehicle for a brief period of time.  Owners should be vigilant, however, and ensure that a dog’s comfort, health, and safety is never put at risk.

AKC encourages Washington state residents to contact the committee in support of Senate Bill 5833, which is a reasonable bill that protects dogs and encourages responsible pet ownership.  Visit the committee hearing page, select SB 5833, then follow the instructions to provide public or written testimony or simply register your position for the official committee record.

Bill Summary:

Current Washington law prohibits people from leaving a vehicle unattended in the state with the engine running.

Senate Bill 5833 provides a 30 minute exemption to this law if it is necessary to run the vehicle’s air conditioning or heater in order to protect a pet from excessive temperatures.  The vehicle must be locked, and the brake effectively set and car turned appropriately when on a perceptible grade, in accordance with current law for unattended vehicles.

AKC supports this bill, which ensures that a dog’s health and safety is protected.  It provides dog owners flexibility when traveling with their pets in the cars.  It can also benefit exhibitors, handlers, and those participating in AKC events who may need to temporarily leave a dog unattended in a vehicle.

AKC Government Relations continues to monitor bills impacting dogs and dog owners in Washington.  For questions or more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.

Short URL: https://caninechronicle.com/?p=348266

Posted by Liz on Jan 19 2026. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.