Found at Yahoo:
Several Colorado lawmakers are supporting legislation to elevate the status of cats and dogs from property to companions. The measure would allow people in Colorado to sue veterinarians and animal abusers and seek damages for "loss of companionship," up to $100,000. Colorado has more than 2 million dogs and cats in 1.6 million households. Current law classifies them as property, and pet owners can seek only "fair market value" in a lawsuit.
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