Dog Owner Sues Florida City for Pet’s Death

The owner of a 12-year-old Golden Retriever who was shot to death by St. Petersburg, Fla., police in 2011 is suing the city.

The Tampa Bay Times reports the lawsuit outlines an argument for why pets should be viewed under the law less like property and more like people.

The suit was filed by Roy Glass, who is a lawyer and the dog’s owner.

Boomer was shot by an officer after a report of his snapping at a neighborhood woman walking her dog. Police said Boomer charged at two officers with teeth bared and growling.

Under Florida law, pets are considered property. Though there is little precedent in Florida, a Texas court ruled last year that “dog owners should be awarded damages based on sentimental value” of a dog.