Animal Law in Florida: Service Dogs, Greyhound Racing, and Animal Lawyers

This year at The Florida Bar Annual Convention, the Animal Law Committee presented an ‘Animal Law in Florida’ seminar. While there, Legal Talk Network producer Laurence Colletti sat down with presenters and members of the committee to discuss what animal law is, what it means to be an animal lawyer, and why education and awareness about these issues is important.

In the first of this two part podcast, Laurence interviews Florida Representative Michelle Rehwinkel Vasilinda, Florida State Senator Maria Sachs, Florida State Director for the Humane Society of the U.S. Kate MacFall, and animal law attorney Diana Ferguson. Together, they discuss the intersection of animal rights, human rights, and Florida laws. The committee is working at the legislative level to address issues regarding service animals, bears, greyhound racing, rhinoceros tusks, research monkeys, and honey bees.

In the second half of the podcast, Laurence talks with the Animal Law Committee Vice-Chair Gil Panzer and animal law lawyer Marcy LaHart. Marcy discusses the types of clients she represents and how to make a living practicing this obscure form of law. Gil explains the purpose of the committee and what they have already achieved.

If you are interested in animal law or you like puppies, tune in to hear about the important work these lawyers are doing.