Emerging Law, Policy & Politics of Companion Animals (446-S2)

Visiting Professor Mark Cushing
Two-Week Intensive: July 12 - July 25, 2011
Tentatively 9:00 am - 11:50 am
2 credit hours

This skill-building seminar provides an intensive examination of cutting edge companion animal legal and policy issues in the American judicial and legislative arenas.  The United States has witnessed a surge in the population of companion animals over the past thirty years.  The law, however, addressing this realm has not kept stride.  Consequently, companion animal policies are an emerging battleground across the United States with significant opportunities for animal lawyers.  This course introduces students to these issues and opportunities.  Students will get a brief overview of companion animal legal traditions and in-depth instruction focusing on current dynamics in the developing field of companion animal law.  Regardless of perspective, this course will challenge students to think critically about the issues.  The course also provides students an opportunity to engage in policy advocacy in mock settings ranging from industry panels to appellate courts to state legislative committees.  The adjunct professor is a former trial lawyer, a full-time national lobbyist, and advisor in the companion animal legal sector.