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Action Still Sought On Animal Abuse Bill

The sponsor of legislation that would stiffen penalties for animal cruelty in Massachusetts is still hoping the measure will become law even though it fell short of final passage as the Legislature ended formal sessions for the year.

The so-called PAWS bill - short for Protecting Animal Welfare and Safety - was approved in the House and Senate but needs enactment votes in both chambers before it can be sent to Gov. Deval Patrick.

A spokesman for Sen. Bruce Tarr, the Senate Republican leader from Gloucester, says that could be done during informal sessions if other lawmakers raise no objections.

Tarr and other animal rights supporters have cited the case of "Puppy Doe," a dog that was euthanized after being found - allegedly beaten and tortured - in Quincy last year.

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