Governor Signs Animal PT Bill

Governor Bill Ritter signed HB 07-1126 (Concerning the Authority of Physical Therapists to Perform Physical Therapy on Animals) at a ceremony held recently in the executive chambers.

Beginning July 1, 2007, PTs licensed in Colorado will be able to treat animals when such treatment is consistent with the scope of physical therapy practice. The PT must obtain a veterinary medical clearance of the animal from a Colorado veterinarian prior to treatment.  Previously PTs were limited to treating only "human beings." Rules will be promulgated by the Dept. or Regulatory Agencies (DORA) regarding educational and clinical requirements and the procedure for handling complaints when PTs are treating animals. Click here to read the final ACT.

Shown above as Gov. Bill Ritter signs the "Animal PT" bill, from left are PTs Carrie Adamson, Castle Rock; Cheryl Riegger-Krugh, Denver, and Marty Pease, Centennial.

Gathering on the steps after the bill signing ceremony were from top left: Rep. Anne McGihon (D-Denver) and her dog Tub; Sen. Steve Johnson, DVM, R-Fort Collins, and Marty Pease, PT, CCRP, Centennial, holding Ms. Gwenevier. From bottom left are Carrie Adamson, PT, CCRP, Denver; Consumer Advocate Connie Fredman, Fort Collins; Cheryl Riegger-Krugh, PT, Denver, and Colorado Chapter contract lobbyist Betsy Murray. The recipient of much physical therapy to treat his arthritis, three-legged Boone stole the show as he rode around the Capitol on a wagon. APTA members who worked on passage of this legislation, but were not able to attend the bill signing ceremony, were Tami Struessel, Denver; Tammy Wolfe, Westminster, and Deanna Rogers, Loveland. All are active in the Canine Study Group and the APTA Orthopaedic Section's Animal Physical Therapy Special Interest Group. The Chapter maintains active representation at the capitol throughout the session. Members of the Chapter Governmental Affairs Committee, chaired by Kim Bozich, PT, DPT, and Tami Struessel, PT, DPT, review bills and activity on a weekly basis. (Photos by Ellen Caruso)

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