PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — R.I. House Speaker Joseph Shekarchi is calling for change after a mistake made during a routine medical procedure two years ago caused the death of a Lincoln woman's dog. Kristen Breton and her two daughters have filed a lawsuit against the veterinarian who spayed and performed a gastropexy on their St. Bernard puppy after a pair of hemostats and a wad of medical-grade gauze were found in her abdomen. The dog, named Princess Freckles, became gravely ill and had to be humanely euthanized last spring. RELATED: Lincoln family sues vet after surgical tools found in dog’s abdomen Breton is seeking compensatory damages for her financial losses, since the law generally regards dogs as personal property. "We filed this lawsuit to shine a light on the malpractice that happened," her attorney Marshall Raucci said. "This should have never happened because doctors, especially surgeons, have to adhere to the standard of care." But Shekarchi believes that should change, noting that the decades-old laws surrounding pets are out of touch. "This is as much my personal view as what I also believe objectively — but pets are not objects," Shekarchi said in this week's episode of Newsmakers. "A pet is part of someone's family and they should be given the same protections [as humans], in my humble opinion." Shekarchi plans to introduce legislation to change the law himself if no other lawmakers come forward. Right now, those who want to issue a formal complaint against a veterinarian, or any other licensed medical professional for that matter, can do so through the Rhode Island Department of Health. The veterinarian was put on active probation for two years as a result of the complaint Breton lodged against her. She was ordered to undergo professional training throughout her probation period, which officially began in late December. "This is not an opportunity financially," Breton explained, referring to the lawsuit. "I want to help others — I want to be a voice for all animals and support the bigger picture moving forward." Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW