“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” -Mahatma Gandhi

In a moment of crisis, I lost my beloved friend Chewie, an innocent soul who needed urgent veterinary assistance. While I frantically sought care, the local animal hospital turned us away as they were closing shortly. By the time we reached another available facility, an excruciating hour later, it was too late; I had to make the unbearable decision to let him go. No pet or pet owner should have to endure such devastating and avoidable heartache.

This experience unleashed the realization that animals, much like humans, do not have the luxury to schedule their emergencies. Particularly in rural areas, access to immediate and comprehensive veterinary care is limited. Current practices allow veterinary clinics and animal hospitals to refuse treatment within the last precise 30 minutes of their business hours, a policy that gravely risks animal welfare.

I propose "Chewie’s Law," a mandate requiring all veterinary facilities to provide care in emergencies, even if it means extending their business hours slightly. This law would ensure that clinics, especially in remote areas, are equipped to help animals facing critical health situations right up until their doors close.

In the United States, a 2019 survey by the American Pet Products Association found that 67% of households, which amounts to about 85 million families, own pets. This immense population emphasizes the significance of accessible veterinary care at all times. Animal lovers across the country deserve assurance that their companions will receive necessary medical intervention, no matter the time of day.

To make "Chewie's Law" a reality, we need to collaborate with legislative bodies to draft policies prioritizing animal welfare. Clinics can implement rotating staff schedules or on-call systems, ensuring no pet is left without potential life-saving treatment due to mere timing.

Join me in advocating for change. Let’s strive to prevent more tragic losses like Chewie’s by compelling veterinary facilities to extend emergency services beyond circumscribed working hours. Sign this petition to drive this legislation forward and make our communities a safer place for every animal life, no matter how small.

In my opinion, The act of Refusing any animal critical health assistance in their time of need is not only extremely rude but it totally disregards that animal’s life as if it is irrelevant. Just like all the countless animals before Chewie, his life was not irrelevant. We as humans don’t want that to happen to us? We don’t want to be denied/turned away because it’s closing time? So why are we allowing it to happen to our animals? Especially our animals that are considered family? You can’t just go get another Chewie. Just like you can’t go get another YOU! Join me today & sign this petition & show your support. Not just for Chewie but for your animals, your neighbors animals, everyone’s animals. Those of us that are fortunate to have paws in our lives. We know! They are all unique & special with their own personalities, likes, & dislikes. Help me move this legislation forward.

Your signatures & support are greatly appreciated 💯🐾

*This Petition was created in Honor & loving memory of my Orange Cat Chewie🧡 whose departure from us was unexpected, unfortunate, & heartbreaking. Chewie provided so much for us during his time in this world that I feel obligated to try and help do/or create something to assist in creating an overall better environment and relationship between animals & humans.