Bill to let EMTs aid injured animals clears Ohio House panel

COLUMBUS (AP) — A bill that would allow first responders to aid injured animals at emergency scenes has cleared an Ohio House panel.

Republican state Rep. Steve Huffman, of Tipp City, tells the Dayton Daily News that emergency medical technicians haven’t been allowed to treat animals under the scope of their license.

The bill would permit first responders to administer oxygen, stop bleeding and give other aid to animals once people at emergency scenes have been treated as needed. Huffman says language in the bill clarifies that the humans are the priority.

The bill wouldn’t allow Ohio residents to call 911 solely to request treatment for injured animals.

The legislation has yet to be considered by the full House.