We don't know exactly how many dogs die in hot cars each day, but even one is too many. Two of the animal protection bills currently up for vote in Massachusetts would help reduce that number, if passed. The proposed bills would allow rescue personnel, such as animal control officers, law enforcement officers and firefighters, to remove pets trapped in hot cars. They would also let the officials cite owners who leave their animals in hot or cold cars.

Other proposed bills would protect homeowners from insurance policies that discriminate based on dog breed, take care of animals seized in animal cruelty cases and forbid the sale of puppies and kittens until the animals are eight weeks old. Also read: The Dachshunds You Asked About Are Ready For New Homes

New Group Connecting Lost and Found Dogs with Families Massachusetts currently has 11 animal protection bills on the ballot, but not one of those bills has the support of more than two legislators.

In order to improve the animal protection bills' chance of passing, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) encourages Massachusetts residents to reach out to local legislators. Politicians in Massachusetts have until Jan. 30 to support the bills. The ASPCA provides a template on their website for anyone who wants to send an email to legislators urging them to support the following bills:

Support: Protect Seized Animals in Cruelty Cases (HD 347)

Sponsor: Rep. Linda Dean Campbell

This "cost of care" bill would update and correct an existing law that lets courts require alleged abusers to post a bond for the care of animals seized in cruelty cases. The legislation is necessary to protect the law enforcement agencies, cities, towns, shelters and other entities that must care for these animals, often for long periods of time, during cruelty prosecutions, according to the ASPCA. Support: Ensure Adequate Care of Animals in Cities and Towns (HD 497)