A month ago, Gov. Linda Lingle signed two measures that help protect abused animals. Both bills close loopholes in the justice system, now providing better care for animals involved in cruelty cases, along with reimbursing the agencies committed to providing that care.

Before these laws, when animals were rescued, the animal abuser was not required to pay for the animals' care while the case awaited a trial and verdict. Sheltering can be an expensive business. Abused and special-needs animals might have behavioral issues and health concerns that require time and money to address. Cruelty cases often require many animals to be taken into protective custody and the process can drag on for years.

The unintended consequence of not having a law to address this issue gave animal abusers no incentive to pursue a speedy trial. While waiting, their animals would receive better shelter, healthcare, nutrition and training from the protective agency. Then, regardless of guilt, the abusers could get their animals back in better condition at no cost to them. For irresponsible breeders, the old system could serve abusers by making their animals a healthier commodity. The real tragedy was that after the trial's conclusion, the animals could be returned to a life of misery with their abuser.

A PRE-TRIAL VICTORY

The Animal Custody Law tells animal abusers that the animals are still their responsibility while awaiting trial. Hawai'i's courts can now require the owner of the animals to post bond for the cost of the care while in protective custody. If no bond is posted, the law enforcement agency may be granted permanent custody.

A POST-TRIAL VICTORY

The Animal Reimbursement Law addresses the cost of caring for cruelty-case animals after a verdict. It enables the courts to require a convicted animal abuser to reimburse a protective agency for the cost of caring for their animals while the trial was pending. These costs might include food, healthcare and sheltering.

These two new laws improve protection of animal victims by ensuring that owners take financial responsibility for their care. In addition, these laws ensure that animal welfare agencies have the resources to continue to combat cruelty in our state.

ADOPTABLES

Missy Bits

Tag No. 99528 Missy Bits is half of a charming pair of 11-year-old cats who came to the Cat House after their owner died. They qualify for the Seniors for Seniors program. Missy Bits, a brown tabby gal, and Mr. Star, a white and gray male, have lived together their entire lives and would like to be adopted together.

Spot

Tag No. 98923 Spot came to Hawai'i from Florida in 2005. This happy 7-year-old is aptly named, having many black and tan spots, including one black one in the middle of her back. An active heeler mix, Spot weighs about 35 pounds. She is house-trained and needs a home.

FOUND

Dottie

Tag No. 97355 This adult female rabbit is being called Dottie. She was found in mid-June and remains unclaimed at the humane society. If you have lost her, please claim her.

These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., weekends and holidays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For directions, special events and to see more pets available for adoption, visit www.hawaiianhumane.org or call 946-2187. Call immediately to report lost or found animals, ext. 2.

PETS ON THE NET — AN ONLINE COMMUNITY

Our new Web feature, Pet Project, is for people who love their dogs, cats and other animals so much they want to show them off to everyone. At Pet Project, you can submit a photo of your pet, read the latest news about pets, learn about new books on pets or join a discussion group with other pet owners in the community. Go to www.honolulu advertiser.com and click on the link to be a part of our Pet Project.