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(KSL News) An abused dog helped make a case for an animal cruelty bill on Capitol Hill this morning.
Henry, a Chihuahua mix, appeared with Rhonda Kamper to support a bill that would make animal abuse a third degree felony in Utah.
Last year, Kamper's ex-husband put Henry in an oven for five minutes because Henry had tried to bite him.
Kamper and bill supporters say stiffer penalties are needed because animal abuse is often tied with spouse and child abuse.
Rhonda Kamper, Pet owner: "The law in this state needs to be changed because I don't believe it's acceptable for any living thing to go through this kind of torture."
Joanne Seghini, Mayor of Midvale: "This is about putting teeth into a law that will help us protect children."
Several of Henry's friends showed up to support the bill as well. However, the bill did not have unanimous support in the senate committee. Those voting against were concerned about unintended consequences of the new law, but the bill did pass and will go to the full Senate.
