In honor of Baxter, Maine’s first official comfort dog, who tragically died in a hot government vehicle, we, the undersigned, petition the U.S. Government to:

Classify all service animals and working animals (e.g., police, military, emotional support, therapy) as protected under federal law.

Treat the unlawful or negligent death of a service animal with the same seriousness as harm done to a human in the line of duty—such as criminal charges equivalent to manslaughter or negligent homicide.

Mandate training and safety standards for all handlers, departments, or agencies responsible for service animals.

Fund GPS temperature monitors, fail-safe systems, and AC cut-off alerts for any government vehicle used to transport animals.

Baxter gave comfort to those who serve our communities. Let us ensure no other service animal is forgotten or lost due to preventable human error. Let his name stand for dignity, duty, and justice—for animals who protect and serve.