Provides that the act of leaving any pet animal with a choke chain unattended for more than a minimal (“de minimis”) period of time by licensed veterinarians or animal massage practitioners shall constitute prima facie evidence of a willful or reckless act punishable as a misdemeanor in addition to afine of up to five thousand dollars.   Official Text and Analysis.

Adds the type of person caring or treating a pet is added. The requirement for willfulness or recklessness is removed. The time period the pet must be left alone is removed.