animal abuse; animal neglect; classification

HB 2997 amends Arizona's animal cruelty statute to clarify and expand definitions of animal abuse and neglect. It creates specific classifications (like "animal abuse in the first degree" for intentional harm) and adds new prohibitions, such as leaving animals unattended in hot/cold vehicles or improperly tethering dogs. The bill directly affects anyone owning or caring for animals in Arizona, including pet owners, breeders, and service animal handlers. Key provisions include stricter penalties for harming service animals, clearer neglect standards (e.g., failure to provide food/water/shelter leading to injury/death), and allowing officers to rescue animals from unsafe vehicles.