Dangerous Dog Statutes

8/13/2019 Dangerous Dog Statutes

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Dangerous Dog: Related Statutes

AK - Bite - Killing dogs annoying or evincing tendency to bite animals or fowls.AK ST 03.55.030

This Alaska statute provides that any dog that habitually annoys any wild deer, reindeer,sheep, cattle, horse, or other animal or bird either domestic or wild, or evinces a

disposition which makes it likely that it will without provocation bite an animal or fowl,may be lawfully killed by any person when it is found at large. The owner or keeper of

the dog, if known or reasonably identifiable, shall be notified and given reasonableopportunity to restrain the dog before it is lawful to kill it.

AK - Dogs - Title 3. Agriculture and Animals. Chapter 55. Dogs.AK ST 03.55.010 - 070

These Alaska statutes give permission to kill dangerous dogs that are running at large

or those that are chasing livestock. It also defines a dangerous dog - "Any dog whichwhen unprovoked has ever bitten or attacked a human being is considered vicious . . ."

Notably, "[a]ny person may lawfully kill any vicious or mad dog running at large." Thissection also allows a village council of an unincorporated village to destroy loose dogs

in the village or otherwise control dogs to the extent authorized first class cities.AK - Ordinances - 03.55.070. Power of village council to control dogs

AK ST 03.55.070This Alaska statute enables a village council the power to destroy loose dogs in the

village and otherwise control dogs to the extent authorized first class cities. The councilmay impose and enforce the provisions of a dog control ordinance in the total area

within 20 miles of the village.

AL - Dog - Consolidated Dog LawsAL ST 3-1-1 to 29; AL ST 3-6-1 to 4; AL ST 3-7A-1 to 16; AL ST 3-8-1; AL ST 9-11-305 to 307These statutes comprise Alabama's relevant dog laws. Included among the provisions

are licensing requirements, dangerous dog provisions, and the chapter on rabies.AL - Dog Bite/Dangerous Animal - Liability of Owners of Dogs Biting or Injuring Persons.

AL ST 3-1-1 - 6; AL ST 3-6-1 to 4; AL ST 3-7A-9

These Alabama statutes outline the state's dog bite law. The law first provides that,

when any person owns or keeps a vicious or dangerous animal of any kind and, as aresult of his or her careless management or allowing the dog to go at liberty, andanother person, without fault is injured, such owner shall be liable in damages for such

injury. If any dog shall, without provocation, bite or injure any person who is at the timeat a place where he or she has a legal right to be, the owner of such dog shall be liable

in damages to the person so bitten or injured. This apparent strict liability has amitigation provision that states that the owner of such dog shall be entitled to plead and
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prove in mitigation of damages that he had no knowledge of any circumstancesindicating such dog to be or to have been vicious or dangerous. If an owner, however, is

aware that his or her dog is rabid at the time of the bite, he or she shall be liable fortwice the damages sustained.

AR - Breed - Wolf-Hybrid - Wolf-Hybrid VaccinationAR ST 20-19-406This Arkansas statute outlines the procedure for vaccination of wolf-hybrid dogs,

including procedures for handling bites by these canines.AR - Dog - Consolidated Dog Laws

AR ST 20-19-101 to 408; 2-40-110; 2-39-110; 15-41-113; 15-42-303; 5-54-126

These Arkansas statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Among the provisions includinglicensing laws, rabies control, and mandatory sterilization laws. Also contained is the

state's Wolf-Hybrid statutory section.

AR - Exotic Pets - Subchapter 4. Ownership and Breeding of Wolves and Wolf-DogHybridsAR ST 20-19-401 to 408

This chapter of Arkansas laws concerns the regulation of wolves and wolf-dog hybridskept as companion animals. Under the law, a "wolf-dog hybrid means any animal whichis publicly acknowledged by its owner as being the offspring of a wolf and domestic dog;however, no animal may be judged to be a wolf or wolf-dog hybrid based strictly on its

appearance. The specific rabies vaccination requirements for wolf-dog hybrids aredetailed as well as confinement requirements (i.e, specific fence dimensions). If a wolf

or wolf-dog hybrid bites a person or injures or destroys another animal while out of itsconfined area, the person responsible for the adequate confinement of the animal upon

conviction shall be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. (See also Link to Ownership andPossession of Large Carnivores Law)

AR - Ordinances - Regulation by suburban improvement district (dogs/cats).AR ST 14-16-701

This Arkansas statute provides that, upon the written request of the governing body of asuburban improvement district (as defined by statute), a county may by ordinance

control and regulate dogs and cats within all or any part of the suburban improvementdistrict. This statute does not elaborate on the confines of such ordinances, so it isassumed the subject matter is constrained only through preemption.

AR - Ordinances - 14-54-1102. Dogs running astray.

AR ST 14-54-1102This Arkansas statute provides that municipal corporations have the power to prevent

the running at large of dogs and the injuries and annoyances associated with them.Further, this statute allows municipalities to authorize the destruction or impoundment of

dogs if found in violation of ordinance. However, prior to destroying the dog, themunicipality shall give the dog's owner at least five (5) days' notice of the date of the

proposed destruction of the dog by certified mail if the dog carries the owner's address.
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AZ - Dog - Arizona Consolidated Dog Laws

AZ ST 11-1001 - 1029; AZ ST 28-2422; AZ ST 17-309These Arizona statutes comprise the laws relating to dogs and animal bites. Includedare provisions related to registration, collaring, and vaccination of dogs. With regard to

dangerous dogs, Arizona law provides that a person with knowledge of a dog's viciouspropensity must also keep the dog in an enclosed yard or confined area with a signindicating the dog's vicious tendencies.

AZ - Dog Ordinances - Powers and duties of board of supervisors (dogs/animals)AZ ST 11-1005

This Arizona statute provides that each county board of supervisors may regulate dogs,including the designation of a county enforcement agent, contracting with any city or

town to enforce the provisions of any ordinance enacted by such city or town for thecontrol of dogs, and for the unincorporated areas of the county, by ordinance, regulate,

restrain and prohibit the running at large of dogs and the excessive and unrestrained

barking of dogs. They may also establish either civil or criminal penalties for violationsof the above ordinances and establish a rabies quarantine zone.AZ - License and Vaccination Ordinances - Exemption of cities, towns and counties

(dogs/animals)AZ ST 11-1018This Arizona statute exempts cities or towns from the provisions of this article if theyimpose a license fee and vaccination on dogs by ordinance, provided that such

ordinance is equal to or more stringent than the provisions of this article. Further, theprovisions of this article shall not apply to counties which regulate the running at large of

dogs in the unincorporated areas of the county by ordinance provided that suchordinance is equal to or more stringent than the provisions of this article.

AZ - Ordinances - Article 2. Board of Trustees Government After Disincorporation.

AZ ST 9-219This Arizona statute provides that the board of trustees of a city may pass ordinances

not inconsistent or in conflict with the laws of this state. More specifically, this statuteprovides that the board may restrain, under penalties, the running at large of cattle or

other animals, and provide rules for impounding them, and provide for taxing dogs andpenalties for the nonpayment of such taxes, or the killing of dogs running at large in thecorporate limits. However, before exercising these powers, the board shall cause a

resolution of intention to be recorded in minutes and then published in some daily or

weekly newspaper at least twoAZ - Ordinances - Lawful presence on private property defined (dogs)

AZ ST 11-1026This Arizona statute provides that a person is lawfully on a dog owner's property when

he or she is there as an invitee or guest, or when in the performance of a duty imposedupon him by law of the state or United States, or by ordinances of a municipality in

which such property is located.
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CA - Animal Control - Chapter 4. Animal Control

West's Ann.Cal.Health & Safety Code 121875 - 121945Beyond being domestic pets, dogs provide many services to humans, such as trackingscents and guarding facilities. Below is a collection of California laws, collectively known

as the Dog Act, that set out definitions, requirements, and penalties relating to guarddogs, tracking dogs, narcotics dogs, sentry dogs and the people who handle them.CA - Bite - Title 10. Of Crimes Against the Public Health and Safety (Dog Bite Laws)

CA PENAL 398 - 399.5If an owner of an animal knows that the animal bit another person, s/he shall provide the

other person with his or her contact information and information about the animal. Aviolation is an infraction punishable by a fine. If any person who owns an animal and

knows of its vicious propensities, allows it to run at large and the animal kills anyperson, the owner may be guilty of a felony. The court may order the removal of the

animal or its destruction.

CA - Dangerous - California Dangerous Dog StatutesWest's Ann. Cal. Food & Agric. Code 31601 - 31683; West's Ann. Cal. Civ. Code 3342 - 3342.5; West's Ann. Cal. Health & Safety Code 121685; West's Ann. Cal. Penal

Code 398 - 399.5This is the California statute for the rules and regulations regarding dangerous and/orvicious dogs. It defines what constitutes a dangerous and/or vicious dog, what is to bedone with said dog(s), and provides a model provision for municipalities to follow. The

other set of provisions contains the relevant dog bite law. California has strict liability fordog bites such that liability is imposed regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or

the owner's knowledge of such viciousness.CA - Dog, dangerous - 31625. Seizure and impoundment pending hearing

West's Ann.Cal.Food & Agric.Code 31625This California statute allows an animal control officer or law enforcement officer to

seize and impound the dog pending hearing if there is probable cause to believe thedog poses an immediate threat to public safety. The owner or keeper of the dog shall

be liable to the city or county where the dog is impounded for the costs and expenses ofkeeping the dog, if the dog is later adjudicated potentially dangerous or vicious.

CA - Dogs - Consolidated Dog Laws

West's Ann. Cal. Penal Code 398 - 399.5, 487e et seq, 597b, 597s, and 597z;

West's Ann. Cal. Health & Safety Code 121575 et seq, 121875 et seq., 122045 -122315; West's Ann.Cal.Food & Agric.Code 30501 - 31683; West's Ann. Cal. Fish & G.

Code 3960 - 3961; 3508; West's Ann. Cal. Gov. Code 38792, 25803; West's Ann.Cal. Civ. Code 3340 - 3342.5

These statutes represent California's dog laws. Included are provisions on countycontrol of dogs, licensing, killing and seizure of dogs, and laws regarding dangerous or

vicious dogs.
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CA - Impound - Seizure and impoundment of dogs on private propertyWest's Ann. Cal. Gov. Code 53074

This California statute provides that animal control officer shall not seize or impound adog on its owner's property for violation of a leash ordinance or issue citations for theviolation of such ordinance when the dog has not strayed from the owner's private

property. However, if the dog has strayed from the property and later returned to it, anofficer may issue a citation if the owner is present or impound the dog if the owner is notpresent. In the latter circumstance, the officer must leave a notice of impoundment at

the residence.CA - Licenses - City dog license tags; compliance with division

CA FOOD & AG 30502This California statute provides that any dog tag issued pursuant to ordinance by a city

or county will be valid provided it complies with this division, provides for the wearing ofthe license tag upon the collar of the dog, and provides for the keeping of a record

which shall establish the identity of the person that owns or harbors the dog.

CA - Ordinances - Regulation and control of dogs; maintenance of pound and rabiescontrol programs; vaccination clinics; issuance of license, duration; disclosure ofinformation

West's Ann. Cal. Health & Safety Code 121690This California statute provides that, in rabies areas, every owner of dogs older than fourmonths shall get a new dog license at least once every two years as provided byordinance of the responsible city, city and county, or county. Also, every dog owner

shall, at intervals of time not more often than once a year, vaccinate his or her dogagainst rabies. Any dog in violation of this chapter and any additional provisions that

may be prescribed by any local governing body shall be impounded, as provided bylocal ordinance.

CA - Rabies - Chapter 1. Rabies Control.

CA HLTH & S 121575 - 121710This chapter of California laws deals with rabies control.

CO - Dangerous Dog- Article 9. Offenses Against Public Peace, Order, and Decency.CO ST 18-9-204.5; CO ST 35-42-115

This Colorado statute defines a "dangerous dog" as one that has inflicted bodily orserious bodily injury upon or has caused the death of a person or domestic animal; orhas demonstrated tendencies that would cause a reasonable person to believe that the

dog may inflict injury upon or cause the death of any person or domestic animal; or has

engaged in or been trained for animal fighting as described by statute. Ownersfound guilty under the provisions will be subject to misdemeanor penalties if their dogs

cause bodily injury or felonies if their dogs cause the death of a person. Section CO ST 35-42-115 mandates that the bureau create a a statewide dangerous dog registry

consisting of a database of information concerning microchip types and placement byveterinarians and licensed shelters in dangerous dogs.

CO - Dog Bite - Civil actions against dog owners.
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CO ST 13-21-124This 2005 Colorado law makes a dog owner strictly liable for dog bites only if the victim

of the bite suffers serious bodily injury or death from being bitten by a dog while lawfullyon public or private property regardless of the viciousness or dangerous propensities ofthe dog or the dog owner's knowledge or lack of knowledge of the dog's viciousness or

dangerous propensities. Further, the victim is entitled to recover only economicdamages (as opposed to noneconomic damages like pain and suffering, inconvenience,etc.) in a civil suit against the dog owner. Also, the statute provides that an owner is

not liable where the victim is unlawfully on public or private property; where the victim ison the owner's property and the the property is clearly and conspicuously marked with

one or more posted signs stating "no trespassing" or "beware of dog"; where the victimhas clearly provoked the dog; where the victim is a veterinary health care worker, dog

groomer, humane agency staff person, professional dog handler, trainer, or dog showjudge acting in the performance of his or her respective duties; or where the dog is

working as a hunting dog, herding dog, farm or ranch dog, or predator control dog on

the property of or under the control of the dog's owner.CO - Dogs - Consolidated Dog Laws

CO ST 35-43-126; 13-21-124; 25-4-601 to 615; 30-15-101 to 105; 33-3-106; 33-4-101.3; 33-6-128; 35-42.5-101These Colorado statutes represent the state's dog laws. There are provisions regardingcivil actions against dog owners for dog bites, rabies control, animal control and

licensing, and pertinent wildlife regulations, such as a general ban on harassing wildlifeand destroying dens or nests. However, there is an exception making it permissible to

take wildlife when it is causing excessive damage to property.

CO - Liability for accident or subsequent disease from impoundment- Article 15.Regulation Under Police Power.

CO ST 30-15-104This Colorado statute immunizes the board of county commissioners or other local

governing entity from liability associated with the impoundment of pet animals.Specifically, it states the board or anyone authorized to enforce a local ordinance shall

not be held responsible for any accident or subsequent disease that may occur to theanimal in connection with the administration of the resolution or ordinance.CO - Ordinances - Animal control officers--Article 15. Regulation Under Police Power.

CO ST 30-15-105

This Colorado statute provides that personnel engaged in animal control may issuecitations or summonses and complaints enforcing the county dog control resolution or

any other county resolution concerning the control of pet animals or municipalordinance. Officers assigned to this capacity may be referred to as "peace officers."

CO - Ordinances - Pet animal control and licensingCO ST 30-15-101
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This Colorado statute states that the board of county commissioners of any county mayadopt a resolution for the control and licensing of dogs. These regulations may require

licensing of dogs by owners, require that dogs and other pet animals be under control atall times and define "control," define "vicious dog" and "vicious animal," establish a dogpound, or other animal holding facility, provide for the impoundment of animals which

are vicious, not under control, or otherwise not in conformity with the resolutions, andestablish such other reasonable regulations and restrictions for the control of dogs andother pet animals.

CT - Dog - Consolidated Dog LawsCT ST 22-327 - 22-367a; CT ST 26-107

These Connecticut statutes comprise the state's dog law. Among the provisions includelicensing, kennel, and rabies regulations. With regard to damage by dogs, the law

provides a form of strict liability that states if any dog does any damage to either thebody or property of any person, the owner or keeper shall be liable for such damage,

except when such damage has been occasioned to the body or property of a person

who, at the time such damage was sustained, was committing a trespass or other tort,or was teasing, tormenting or abusing such dog. The law also contains a unique "dogson highway" provision that provides that any person owning or having the custody of any

dog which habitually goes out on any highway and growls, bites, or snaps at, orotherwise annoys, any person or domestic animal lawfully using such highway orchases or interferes with any motor vehicle so using such highway, shall be guilty of aclass D misdemeanor. Further, among the nuisance provisions, the law states that no

person shall own or harbor a dog which is a nuisance by reason of vicious disposition orexcessive barking or other disturbance. These laws also contain provisions on reporting

neglected or cruelly treated animals. Finally, Connecticut has an anti-ear croppingmeasures that prohibits cropping by anyone who is not a registered veterinary surgeon,

and who performs the operation when the dog is under an anesthetic.

DC - Dog - Consolidated Dog Laws and Dangerous Dog ProvisionDC ST 8-1801 - 1813; 8-1901 - 1908

These District of Columbia statutes make up the dog laws for the District. Includedamong the provisions are definitions, animal control and at large provisions, and

vaccinations/licensing regulations. With regard to dangerous dogs, the term "dangerousanimal" means an animal that because of specific training or demonstrated behaviorthreatens the health or safety of the public. The Mayor may impound any animal at

large or any dangerous animal. If a dog injures a person while at large, lack of

knowledge of the dog's vicious propensity standing alone shall not absolve the ownerfrom a finding of negligence.

DE - Dangerous - Delaware Dangerous Dog Laws

DE ST TI 9 920 - 928 (formerly DE ST TI 7 1730 - 40)These Delaware statutes comprise the state's dangerous dog laws. Among the

provisions includes the mandatory seizure of dogs who have chased or pursued
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persons on bicycles twice in a twelve-month period or those that have killed or inflictedserious injury on people or other domestic animals. However, no dog shall be

considered dangerous or potentially dangerous if a person was, at the time the injurywas sustained, committing criminal trespass or other tort upon premises occupied bythe owner of the dog, or was teasing, tormenting, abusing or assaulting the dog, or was

committing or attempting to commit a crime. An owner who violates the provisionsregarding ownership of dangerous dogs faces graduated fines based on the conduct atissue.

DE - Dogs - Consolidated Dog LawsDE ST TI 9 901 - 919; DE ST TI 9 920 - 928; DE ST TI 3 8201 - 8213; DE ST TI 3

8214 - 8225; DE ST TI 6 4001 - 4011; DE ST TI 7 1701 - 1740;These statutes comprise Delaware's dog laws. Among the provisions include licensing

requirements, laws concerning hunting field trials, and the dangerous dog subchapter.DE - Ordinances - Local ordinances (dogs)

DE ST TI 7 1740

(Repealed). This Delaware statutes provides that nothing shall prevent a localmunicipality from enacting measures or a program for the control of dangerous orpotentially dangerous dogs.

FL - Dangerous Dog - CHAPTER 767. DAMAGE BY DOGS.FL ST 767.14This Florida statute provides that nothing in the dangerous dog act limits the ability of

local governments from enacting restrictions on dangerous dogs more severe than thestate law, as long as the regulations are not breed-specific.

FL - Dogs - Florida Dog /Dangerous Dog LawsFL ST 767.01 - 16; 705.19; 823.041; 823.15

These Florida statutes outline the state's dog provisions, which mainly cover dangerousdog/dog bite laws. The owner of any dog that bites any person while such person is on

or in a public place, or lawfully on or in a private place, including the property of theowner of the dog, is liable for damages suffered by persons bitten, regardless of the

former viciousness of the dog or the owners' knowledge of such viciousness. However,any negligence on the part of the person bitten that is a proximate cause of the biting

incident reduces the liability of the owner of the dog by the percentage that the bittenperson's negligence contributed to the biting incident. If a dog that has previously beendeclared dangerous attacks or bites a person or a domestic animal without provocation,

the owner is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree. The dog will be impounded for

a period of ten days during which time the owner of the dog may request a hearing.FL - Ordinances - Interpretation of Dog Ordinances under Dangerous Dogs

FL ST 767.07This Florida statute provides that the statutory section relating to state regulation of

dangerous dogs is supplemental to all other state laws affecting dogs and shall not beconstrued to modify those laws or to prevent municipalities from prohibiting, licensing, or
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regulating the running at large of dogs within their respective limits by law or ordinance.

GA - Bite - 51-2-6. Dogs, liability of owner or keeper for injuries to livestockGA ST 51-2-6 to 7This Georgia statute represents the state's relevant dog bite strict liability law. While the

law imposes strict liability for injury to a person, the dog (or other animal) must first beconsidered "vicious" or "dangerous," which can be as simple as showing the animal wasrequired to be leashed per city ordinance. Second, the animal must be at large by the

careless management of the owner. Finally, the person injured must not have provokedthe animal into attacking him or her.

GA - Dangerous Dog Ordinances - Chapter 8. DogsGA ST 4-8-29

This Georgia statute states the standards and requirements for the control of dangerousdogs and vicious dogs; this statute also proscribes penalties for violations of these

standards and requirements. For instance, a violation of this article is a misdemeanor of

high and aggravated nature; repeated violations of this article is a felony.GA - Dog - Consolidated Dog LawsGA ST 4-8-1 to 45; GA ST 4-14-1 to 4-15-1; GA ST 27-3-16 to 18

These Georgia statutes comprise the state's dog laws and the "Responsible DogOwnership Law.". Among the provisions of the Responsible DogOwnership Law include a requirement for registration of dangerous dogs as well as thenecessity of such owner to carry at least $50,000 in liability insurance. Owners of these

dogs who do not comply with these and other provisions may have their dogsconfiscated and destroyed. Any person who violates this article is guilty of a

misdemeanor.GA - Ordinances - Jurisdiction and duties of local governments

GA ST 4-8-22This Georgia statute provides authority for local governing units to enforce this

article. This statute further establishes that the local government shall designate anindividual as a dog control officer to aid in the administration and enforcement of the

provisions of this article; the dog control officer does not have the authority to makearrests unless the person is a law enforcement officer. Additionally, this article also

allows local governments to make arrangements with each other for consolidation ofdog control services.HI - Dog - General Dog Provisions

HI ST 143-1 to 19; HI ST 183D-65

This Hawaii statute provides the pertinent regulations for dogs in the state. Included inits provisions are licensing, impoundment, seizure of loose or unlicensed dogs, and

stray animals. Of particular note is a provision that makes it unlawful for any officer toknowingly sell or give any impounded dog to any person, firm, corporation, association,

medical college, or university for the purpose of animal experimentation.HI - Dog Bite - Chapter 142. Animals, Brands, and Fences.

HI ST 142-75
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This Hawaii statute provides that the owner of any dog that has bitten a human beingshall have the duty to take such reasonable steps as are necessary to prevent the

recurrence of such incident. Whenever a dog has bitten a human being on at least twoseparate occasions (with no applicable exceptions), any person may bring an actionagainst the owner of the dog. Each county may enact and enforce ordinances

regulating persons who own, harbor, or keep any dog that has bitten, injured, or maimeda person. No ordinance enacted under this subsection shall be held invalid on theground that it covers any subject or matter embraced within any statute or rule of the

State; provided that the ordinance shall not affect the civil liability of a person owning theoffending dog.

HI - Dog Bite - Chapter 142. Animals, Brands, and Fences.HI ST 142-74 - 142-75

Hawaii statute provides that if any dog, while on private property without the consent ofthe owner of that property, injures or destroys any sheep, cattle, goat, hog, fowl, or other

property belonging to any person other than the owner of the dog, the owner of the dog

shall be liable in damages to the person injured for the value of the property so injuredor destroyed. Further, each county may enact and enforce ordinances regulatingpersons who own, harbor, or keep any dog that has injured, maimed, or destroyed an

animal belonging to another person.HI - Dog Bite - CHAPTER 663. TORT ACTIONS.HI ST 663-9 - 663-9.1This statute represents Hawaii's relevant dog bite law. Under the statute, an owner or

harborer of an animal is strictly liable for personal or property damage to any person,regardless of the animal owner's or harborer's lack of scienter of the vicious or

dangerous propensities of the animal.HI - Impound - Chapter 143. Animals: Licenses and Regulations.

HI ST 143-8This Hawaii statute provides that, except where licensing requirements are dispensed

with, every officer shall seize any unlicensed dog found running at large or foundoutside a sufficient enclosure even if within the immediate presence of its owner. The

animal will then be confined at a pound for forty-eight hours whereupon it can beredeemed by the owner, sold, or humanely destroyed if not reclaimed. Each county

council shall have the power to fix the impoundment fee for dogs.IA - Dog - Iowa Dangerous Dog/General Dog LawsIA ST 351.1 - .43

These Iowa statutes comprise the state's dog laws. With regard to damage done by

dogs and dog bites, the owner of a dog shall be liable to an injured party for alldamages done by the dog, when the dog is caught in the action of worrying, maiming,

or killing a domestic animal, or the dog is attacking or attempting to bite a person,except when the party damaged is doing an unlawful act, directly contributing to the

injury. Further, the law states that it shall be the duty of the owner of any dog, cat orother animal which has bitten or attacked a person or any person having knowledge of

such bite or attack to report this act to a local health or law enforcement official. The
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section also contains general rabies vaccination provisions and a prohibition on dogsrunning at large (results in impoundment).

IA - Dog License - Chapter 351. Dogs and Other Animals.IA ST 351.27This Iowas statute makes it lawful for any person to kill a dog, wearing a collar with a

rabies vaccination tag attached, when the dog is caught in the act of worrying, chasing,maiming, or killing any domestic animal or fowl, or when such dog is attacking orattempting to bite a person.

IA - Ordinances - CHAPTER 351. DOGS AND OTHER ANIMALS

IA ST 351.36This Iowa statute provides that local health and law enforcement officials shall

enforce state provisions relating to vaccination and impoundment of dogs. It furtherstates that such public officials shall not be responsible for any accident or disease of a

dog resulting from the enforcement of the provisions of the sections.

IA - Ordinances - Duties relating to servicesIA ST 331.381

This Iowa statute states that the county board shall provide for the seizure,impoundment, and disposition of dogs in accordance with chapter 351.ID - Dangerous - 25-2806. Liability for livestock and poultry killed by dogs

ID ST 25-2806This Idaho statute provides that any owner whose dog that kills, worries, or wounds any

livestock and poultry is liable to the owner of the same for the damages and costs ofsuit, to be recovered before any court of competent jurisdiction. Further, any person, on

finding any dog, not on the premises of its owner or possessor, worrying, wounding, orkilling any livestock or poultry may, at the time of so finding said dog, kill the same,

without liability for damages.ID - Dangerous Dogs running at large - Chapter 28. Dogs.

ID ST 25-2805This Idaho statute provides that any person who lets his or her dog run at large after a

complaint has been made to the sheriff shall be guilty of an infraction punishable asprovided in section 18-113A, Idaho Code. Any person who lets his or her dog physicallyattack someone when not provoked shall be guilty of a misdemeanor in addition to any

liability as provided in section 25-2806, Idaho Code. For a second or subsequent

violation of this subsection, the court may, in the interest of public safety, order theowner to have the vicious dog destroyed or may direct the appropriate authorities to

destroy the dog.ID - Dog - Consolidated Dog Laws

ID ST 25-2801 - 2808; ID ST 36-1101
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These Idaho statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Among the provisions includelicensing requirements, laws regarding dogs at large and vicious dogs, and immunity for

acts done by law enforcement dogs.IL - Dog Bite - Chapter 510. AnimalsIL ST CH 510 5/13

This Illinois statute provides the health procedure for dog bites. When a state healthadministrator receives information that any person has been bitten by an animal, theadministrator shall have such dog or other animal confined under the observation of a

licensed veterinarian for a period of 10 days. People with knowledge of dog bites arerequired to inform the administrator or his or her representative promptly. It is unlawful

for the owner of the animal to euthanize, sell, give away, or otherwise dispose of anyanimal known to have bitten a person, until it is released by the administrator.

IL - Dogs - Consolidated Dog Laws510 ILCS 5/1 - 35; 510 ILCS 92/1 - 999; 720 I.L.C.S. 630/0.01 - 1; 510 ILCS 72/1 - 180;

740 I.L.C.S. 13/1 - 10; 55 I.L.C.S. 5/5-1071 - 1071.1; 60 I.L.C.S. 1/30-110; 520 I.L.C.S.

20/15 and 20/19; 520 I.L.C.S. 5/2.34; 105 I.L.C.S. 5/14-6.02; 65 I.L.C.S. 5/11-20-9; 520I.L.C.S. 5/1.2y, 2z; 520 I.L.C.S. 5/3.26These statutes comprise Illinois' dog laws. Among the provisions include the Animal

Control Act, which regulates the licensing and control of dogs, the Diseased Animal Act,and the Humane Euthanasia in Animal Shelters Act.IN - Bite - Indiana Dog Bite LawsIN ST 15-20-1-1 - 7; IN ST 35-47-7-4

These Indiana statutes provide the state's dog bite laws. If a dog, without provocation,bites any person who is peaceably conducting himself in any place where he may be

required to go for the purpose of discharging any duty imposed upon him by the laws ofthis state or by the laws or postal regulations of the United States of America, the owner

of such dog may be held liable for any damages suffered by the person bitten,regardless of the former viciousness of such dog or the owner's knowledge of such

viciousness. It also establishes the conditions under which an owner will be criminallyliable if his or her dog bites another person. In Indiana, physicians treating dog bite

injuries are required to report such injuries not more than 72-hours after the incident.IN - Cruelty - Consolidated Cruelty Statutes

IN ST 35-46-3-.05 to 15; IN ST 36-8-3-18These Indiana statutes set forth the anti-cruelty laws. As used in this chapter, "animal"does not include a human being. A person having a vertebrate animal in the person's

custody who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally abandons or neglects the animal

commits cruelty to an animal, a Class B misdemeanor. A person who knowingly orintentionally purchases or possesses an animal for the purpose of using the animal in

an animal fighting contest commits a Class A misdemeanor.IN - Dog - Consolidated Dog Laws

IN ST 15-17-6-1 - 14; 25-38.1-4-8 ; 15-20-2-1 - 7; 6-9-39-1 - 9; 35-46-3-15; 15-20-3-1 -4 ; 14-22-11-1
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These Indiana statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Included are provisions onrabies, liability of owners for dog bites or damage to livestock, and taxation and

registration laws, among others.IN - Dog Ordinances - Chapter 1. Liability for Dog BitesIN ST 15-20-1-1 (formerly cited as IN ST 15-5-12-6 )

This Indiana statute provides that the chapter related to dog bite law does not limit thepower of an agency of the state or a political subdivision to adopt a rule or an ordinancethat does not conflict with this chapter.

KS - Dogs - Consolidated Dog Laws

KS ST 47-645 - 646a; 47-835; 47-1701 - 1737; 79-1301These Kansas statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Among the provisions include

licensing of dogs, specific laws that outline the care of dogs in kennel situations, andlaws pertaining to dogs who endanger livestock.

KY - Dangerous - REPEALED - Quarantine of dogs in case of excessive damage to

livestock, poultry, or domestic game birds; destruction of dogs in violation of quarantineKY ST 258.345This Kentucky statute provides that, when the inhabitants of any city, or county, have

suffered an excessive amount of damage to livestock or poultry or domestic game birdsby dogs, a petition may be presented to the commissioner, signed by twenty (20) ormore of such inhabitants who are owners of livestock or poultry, alleging such excessivedamage and requesting that a quarantine be placed on all dogs within the limits of such

city, or county. It then becomes unlawful for a dog not engaged in hunting to run atlarge in the quarantine area.

KY - Dog Laws (also includes cats & ferrets) - Kentucky Consolidated Dog Laws(License, Impound, Bite, etc.)

KY ST 258.005 - 991; 150.390These Kentucky statutes comprise the state's Dog Laws, which were amended

significantly in 2005. Included are all vaccination, licensing, animal control provisions,and the relevant dog bite statutes. Under Section 258.235, any person may kill or seize

any dog which he sees in the act of pursuing or wounding any livestock, or wounding orkilling poultry, or attacking human beings, whether or not such dog bears the license tag

required by the provisions of this chapter. There shall be no liability on such person indamages or otherwise for killing, injuring from an attempt to kill, or for seizing the dog.That same section also comprises the state's new strict liability law for dog bites. Under

Sec. 235(4), any owner whose dog is found to have caused damage to a person,

livestock, or other property shall be responsible for that damage.

KY - Impound - Confinement and destruction of dog found to have caused loss ordamage to livestock, persons, or poultry; harborer of unlicensed dog forfeits rights in

livestock fundKY ST 258.325 (REPEALED 2004)
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This Kentucky statute provides that the owner of any dog or dogs having caused loss ordamage to any livestock or poultry or person is definitely and conclusively shown or if

written complaint is filed and if such charge is proven by investigation on the part of thedepartment, the commissioner may notify the owner or keeper of such dog toimmediately destroy the dog. It then becomes unlawful and a violation of this chapter

for such owner, or keeper to permit or cause such dog, while alive, to leave or to beremoved from such premises. The destroying of such dogs shall not remove the liabilityof the owner for such damage done by his dog.

KY - Ordinances - CHAPTER 258. DOGS.KY ST 258.365

This Kentucky statute provides that nothing in this chapter related to state regulation ofdogs shall be construed to prohibit or limit the right of any city to pass or enforce any

ordinance with respect to the regulation of dogs, the provisions of which are notinconsistent with the provisions of this chapter.

LA - Dangerous - Louisiana Dangerous Dog & Dog Bite Laws

LA R.S. 14:102.14; L.A. R.S. 2771 - 2778These Louisiana statutory sections provide the state's animal control and dangerousdog laws. A dog becomes dangerous when (1) unprovoked, on two separate occasions

within the prior thirty-six-month period, engages in any behavior that requires adefensive action by any person to prevent bodily injury when the person and the dog areoff the property of the owner of the dog; (2) any dog which, when unprovoked, bites aperson causing an injury; or (3) any dog which, when unprovoked, on two separate

occasions within the prior thirty-six-month period, has killed, seriously bitten, inflictedinjury, or otherwise caused injury to a domestic animal off the property of the owner of

the dog. It is unlawful for any person to own a dangerous dog without properlyrestraining or confining the dog. Any citizen or officer may kill any dangerous or vicious

dog, and no citizen or officer shall be liable for damages or to prosecution by reason ofkilling any dangerous or vicious dog. The section also provides laws on licensing,

vaccination, and prohibitions on dogs running at large.LA - Dog - Consolidated Dog Laws

LA R.S. 2451 - 2778; LA R.S. 56:124.1; LSA-R.S. 56:141These statutes comprise Louisiana's dog laws. Included among the provisions are

dangerous dog laws, impoundment provisions, and the relevant licensing requirements.

LA - Dog Bite - Art. 2321. Damage caused by animals.

LA C.C. Art. 2321

This Louisiana civil code statute provides that an owner of any animal is liable fordamages caused by that animal only upon a showing that he or she knew or should

have known that his or her animal's behavior would cause damage, that the damagecould have been prevented by the exercise of reasonable care, and that he or she failed

to exercise such reasonable care. However, the owner of a dog is strictly liable forinjuries to persons or property caused by the dog and which the owner could have

prevented and which did not result from the injured person's provocation of the dog.
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LA - Dog Dangerous - Chapter 1. Criminal Code.LA R.S. 14:102.14

This Louisiana statute defines a "dangerous dog" as any dog which when unprovoked,on two separate occasions within the prior thirty-six-month period, engages in anybehavior that requires a defensive action by any person to prevent bodily injury when

the person and the dog are off the property of the owner of the dog; or any dog which,when unprovoked, bites a person causing an injury; or any dog which, whenunprovoked, on two separate occasions within the prior thirty-six-month period, has

killed, seriously bitten, inflicted injury, or otherwise caused injury to a domestic animaloff the property of the owner of the dog. It is unlawful for any person to own a

dangerous dog without properly restraining or confining the dog.LA - Dog Fighting - House Bill 2064 (Louisiana Prohibition on Illegal Dog Training

(failed))Louisiana House Bill 2064 (2001)

This Louisiana 2001 proposed law would have provided for the crime of illegally training

dogs; however, it died in committee. It would have also defined "illegally train" to meanthe training of a dog to attack or kill a human being, another dog, or any other animalspecies. The proposed law would have created exceptions for any dog used by law

enforcement officials, a guard dog used to defend livestock raised for commercial orsubsistence purposes, or a guard dog used to defend any school, place of business, orpersonal residence. Violation of the proposed law would have incurred a fine of notmore than $500 or imprisonment of not more than six months, or both.

LA - Dog Fighting - Senate Bill 682 (Louisiana Prohibition on Animal Fighting (failed))

Louisiana Senate Bill 682 (2001)This Louisiana Senate Bill proposed in 2001 would have expanded the definition for

animal fighting from "dog fighting" to "animal fighting" and also prohibits intentionalanimal fighting. The amended law would have provided for the seizure and destruction

or disposition of such animals and equipment used in animal fighting and would havecreated penalties for violations, including imprisonment.

LA - Dog Fighting - Senate Bill 866 (Louisiana Dogfighting Amendments (passed))Louisiana Senate Bill 866 (2001)

This Louisiana senate bill passed in the summer of 2001 defines the act of dogfightingand makes admissible as evidence of dogfighting certain paraphernalia used in thetraining of dogs to fight and injuries or alterations to the dog that are consistent

with dogfighting. It exempts certain activities, including the training of dogs to protect

livestock and the cropping of dogs' ears for cosmetic purposes. Upon firstconviction, violation incurs a fine of not more than one thousand dollars

or imprisonment with or without hard labor for not more than one year, or both. Upon asecond or subsequent conviction, the offender shall be fined not more than three

thousand dollars or be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than threeyears, or both.

LA - Ordinances - CHAPTER 18. ANIMALS RUNNING AT LARGE.
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LA R.S. 3:2731This Louisiana statute provides that the governing bodies of all parishes and

municipalities may impose license taxes on all dogs, enact ordinances for the regulationof dogs running at large, and maintain pounds for the impounding of dogs.

MA - Dog - Consolidated Dog LawsMA ST 140 136A - 175; MA ST 131 20, 21, 21A, 82These Massachusetts statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Among the provisions

include licensing laws, dangerous dog laws, and rabies vaccination provisions.MA - Dog Ordinances - CHAPTER 140. LICENSES.

MA ST 140 173AThis Massachusetts statute provides the state law relative to violation of municipal by-

laws or ordinances related to dog control. Included are penalty provisions andappearance requirements.

MA - Ordinances - By-laws and ordinances relative to regulation of dogs

MA ST 140 147AThis Massachusetts statute provides that any city or town that accepts the provisions ofthis statutory section is empowered to enact by-laws and ordinances relative to the

regulation of dogs. These areas may relate to, but not be limited to dog licensing,establishing dog fees, disposition of fees, appointment of dog officers, kennel licensingand regulations, procedures for the investigation of and reimbursement for damagecaused by dogs, restraining of dogs and establishing penalties for a breach.

MD - Bite - Maryland Dangerous Dog LawsMD CRIM LAW 10-619

This Maryland statute outlines what is a "Dangerous dog." As defined by statute, it is adog that, without provocation, has killed or inflicted severe injury on a person, or it is a

potentially dangerous dog that bites a person, when not on its owner's real property, killsor inflicts severe injury on a domestic animal, or attacks without provocation. An owner

of a dangerous dog must keep the dog securely enclosed on his or her property or mustmuzzle and restrain the dog. A person who violates this section is guilty of a

misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $2,500.MD - Cruelty - Consolidated Cruelty Statutes

MD CRIM LAW 10-601 - 623; MD CRIM LAW 3-322This Maryland statutory section comprises the state's anti-cruelty provisions. Under thesection, "animal" means a living creature except a human being. "Cruelty" is defined as

the unnecessary or unjustifiable physical pain or suffering caused or allowed by an act,

omission, or neglect, and includes torture and torment. Agricultural, veterinary,research, and "an activity that may cause unavoidable physical pain to an animal,

including food processing, pest elimination, animal training, and hunting. . . " areexcluded from the purview of the act.

MD - Dogs - Consolidated Dog LawsMD Code, Art. 24, 11-501 - 514; MD Code, Transportation, 21-1004.1; MD Code, Art.

25, 236A, MD Code, Natural Resources, 10-413, 10-701 TO 703; MD Code, Natural
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Resources, 10-807; MD Code, Public Safety, 2-313; MD Code, Health - General, 18-312 - 321; MD Code, State Government, 13-30

These statutes comprise Maryland's dog laws. Maryland is unique in that the state lawgoverns the specific licensing and other regulations certain counties may adopt orenforce. Also included are the state rabies provisions and even the law that designates

the state dog (the Chesapeake Bay retriever).MD - Licenses - Article 24. Political Subdivisions--Miscellaneous Provisions.MD CODE, Art. 24, 11-510

This Maryland statute provides that any dog found running at large without the properlicense tag attached is considered a nuisance and is subject to seizure, detention and

destruction. When the dog warden is not able to catch a dog running at large without alicense tag, the dog may be shot or otherwise killed. The County Commissioners may

provide by ordinance that owners of dogs may not permit the dog, whether licensed orunlicensed, to run at large, after a petition signed by a majority of residents has been

submitted. Dogs seized under this provision are kept for 72 hours; thereafter, the owner

loses ownership rights and is subject to sale after an additional holding period. Any dogseized and not redeemed within 120 hours from time of its seizure may be killed by thedog warden or one of his or her duly authorized deputies.

MD - Ordinances - Annapolis and Rockville Animal Control OrdinancesAnnapolis - 8.04.010 - 040; Rockville Sec. 3-1 - 124These ordinances comprise the cities of Annapolis and Rockville, Maryland's animalcontrol provisions.

MD - Ordinances - 236A. Washington County; animal control ordinanceMD CODE, Art. 25, 236A

This Maryland statute provides that the County Commissioners for Washington Countymay adopt an animal control ordinance. This may include provisions to hold public

hearings to decide citations, complaints, and other controversies arising under theanimal control ordinance. Ordinances may also include provisions for the control of

rabid animals and the disposition of uncontrolled, vicious, and sick animals among otherthings.

ME - Dog, Dangerous - Maine Dangerous Dog LawsME ST T. 7 3951 - 3953; ME ST T. 7 3961 - 3964; ME ST T.7 3907

This Maine statutory sections outlines the state's dangerous dog laws. It first providesthat any person may lawfully kill a dog if necessary to protect that person, anotherperson or a domesticated animal during the course of a sudden, unprovoked assault. A

person who owns or keeps a dangerous dog commits a civil violation for which the court

shall adjudge a fine of not less than $250 and not more than $1,000. The dog may beordered to be muzzled, or euthanized if it has killed, maimed or inflicted serious bodily

injury upon a person or has a history of a prior assault. Notably, if a dog whoseowner refuses or neglects to comply with the order wounds any person by a sudden

assault or wounds or kills any domestic animal, the owner shall pay the person injuredtreble damages and costs to be recovered by a civil action. The statute sets out the
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specific procedure for declaring a dog dangerous and the statutory definition ofdangerous is also provided by reference to a companion statute.

ME - Dogs - Consolidated Dog LawsME ST T.7 3901 - 4163; ME ST T. 12 12707

These Maine statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Among the provisions includelicensing requirements, laws that determine the disposition of loose or dangerous dogs,and a chapter on the sale of dogs.

MI - Dangerous - Chapter 287. Animal Industry. Dangerous Animals.M. C. L. A. 287.321 - 323

This Michigan statute defines "dangerous animal," which means a dog or other animalthat bites or attacks a person, or a dog that bites or attacks and causes serious injury or

death to another dog while the other dog is on the property or under the control of itsowner. However, a dangerous animal does not include any of the following: an animal

that bites or attacks a person who is knowingly trespassing on the property of the

animal's owner; an animal that bites or attacks a person who provokes or torments theanimal; or an animal that is responding in a manner that an ordinary and reasonableperson would conclude was designed to protect a person if that person is engaged in a

lawful activity or is the subject of an assault.MI - Dog Bite - Chapter 750. Michigan Penal Code. The Michigan Penal Code.MCL 750.66aThis Michigan law, which becomes effective January of 2009, provides that a person 18

years of age or older who is responsible for controlling the actions of a dog or wolf-dogcross and the person knows or has reason to know that the dog or wolf-dog cross has

bitten another person shall remain on the scene. A person who violates this section isguilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 93 days or a fine

of not more than $500.00, or both.MI - Dogs - Consolidated Dog Laws

M.C.L. 287.261 - 395; 324.73101 - 42106The regulation of dogs and cats in Michigan implicates three major issues: licensing and

registration of dogs; the regulation of animal control facilities and pet shops; and theever-present concern of dog bites. The primary statutory vehicle that regulates the

licensing requirements for dogs is the The Dog Law of 1919. Under the dog law, it isunlawful for any person to own a dog six months or older unless the dog is licensed.MCL 287.262. It is also unlawful for a person to own a dog six months or older that

does not wear a collar and tag at all times, except when engaged in hunting activities

accompanied by his or her owner. MCL 287.262. A female dog that is in heat may notgo beyond her owners premises unless properly held on a leash under this section.

MI - Exotic pets - CHAPTER 287. ANIMAL INDUSTRY. WOLF-DOG CROSS ACT.

MI ST 287.1021Under this Michigan statute, a local unit is empowered to adopt an ordinance governing

wolf-dog crosses that is more restrictive than this act, provided it fulfills the requirements
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of this act in addition to any other requirements governing a wolf-dog cross under stateand federal law.

MI - Exotic pets - CHAPTER 287. ANIMAL INDUSTRY. WOLF-DOG CROSS ACT.M. C. L. A. 287.1004

This Michigan statute provides the requirements for ownership of wolf-dog hybrids in thestate.MI - Exotic Pets - Chapter 287. Animal Industry; Wolf-dog Cross Act

MI ST 287.1001 - 1023This Michigan law bans acquisition and possession of wolf-dog hybrids, though it

grandfathered animals already owned as pets at the time of the law's enactments. Inorder to maintain public safety and animal welfare, the state created a strict permit

system for those owners who were allowed to keep their already-existing pets. (See alsolink to Chapter 287. Animal Industry; Large Carnivore Act; link to 287.731- Importation of

species having potential to endanger life or property prohibited; importation of wild or

exotic animals; requirements and prohibitions).MI - Ordinances - CHAPTER 287. ANIMAL INDUSTRY. DOG LAW OF 1919.M. C. L. A. 287.290

This Michigan statute enables a city, village or township to adopt an animal controlordinance to regulate the licensing, payment of claims and providing for the enforcementthereof.MI - Ordinances - CHAPTER 287. ANIMAL INDUSTRY. DOG LAW OF 1919.

M. C. L. A. 287.289aThis Michigan law provides that a board of county commissioners may establish, by

ordinance, an animal control agency. The animal control agency shall have jurisdictionto enforce this act in any city, village or township which does not have an animal control

ordinance. The county's animal control ordinance shall provide for animal controlprograms, facilities, personnel and necessary expenses incurred in animal control.

MI - Ordinances - Chapters 81 to 113 Fourth Class Cities.M. C. L. A. 91.1

This Michigan statute provides that a city incorporated under the provisions of this acthas, and the council may pass ordinances relating to, the following general powers: To

provide for the issuing of licenses to the owners and keepers of dogs and to require theowners and keepers of dogs to pay for and obtain such licenses; and to regulate andprevent the running at large of dogs, to require dogs to be muzzled, and to authorize the

killing of dogs running at large or not licensed in violation of an ordinance of the city.

MN - Dangerous - Minnesota Dangerous Dog Definitions, Dog Bites, & Rabies

TreatmentsMN ST 35.67 - 35.69; MN ST 346.51; MN ST 347.50

This Minnesota statute outlines the procedure for a town establishing a rabiesproclamation and prevents the running at large of unmuzzled dogs in such localities. It

also provides that an owner or custodian of a dog which does not have an appropriate
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antirabies vaccination and which bites or otherwise exposes a person to rabies virusmay be penalized under section 346.53. The statute also defines "dangerous dog" and

"potentially dangerous dog."MN - Dog - Consolidated Dog LawsMN ST 35.67 - 71; 97A.321, 97B.001 - 621; 325F.79-792; 346.01-58; 347.01-56; 365.10;

366.01These statutes comprise Minnesota's relevant dog laws. Among the provisions includeseveral laws related to natural resources protection and hunting with dogs, the sale of

dogs, and laws related to damage done by dogs.MN - Ordinances - 366.01.Chapter 366. Town Board; Board of Audit. Town Board.

MN ST 366.01This Minnesota statute provides that the supervisors of each town constituting a town

board are empowered to license and regulate the presence or keeping of dogs ordomestic animal pets when deemed to be in the public interest.

MN - Ordinances - Chapter 347. Dogs and Cats. Dogs.

MN ST 347.21This Minnesota statute provides that state dog control laws are supplemental to localprovisions enacted by ordinance and shall not be construed as to modify, repeal,

or prevent municipalities from prohibiting, licensing, or regulating the running at large ofdogs.MN - Ordinances - Chapter 365. Town General Law. Town Meeting Powers.MN ST 365.10

Under this Minnesota statute, town electors at their annual town meeting, areempowered to exercise control over a number of activities relating to dogs. They can

decide the locations of pounds, set the number of poundmasters, and discontinue apound. The electors may make orders and bylaws on restraining horses, cattle, sheep,

swine, and other domestic animals from going at large on roads. They may also makeorders and bylaws on the impounding of domestic animals going at large and fix

penalties for violations of the orders and bylaws. The electors may let the town boardpass an ordinance for licensing dogs and cats and regulating their presence, keeping,

and running at large in the town. The electors are also granted the authority to providefor a specific activity that is within any of the following categories: the promotion of

health, safety, order, and convenience, and the general welfare.MN - Rabies - Chapter 35. Animal HealthMN ST 35.67 - 35.69

This set of Minnesota laws relates to rabies investigation and proclamation. The owner

or custodian of a dog may not permit it to be at large, either on the premises of theowner or elsewhere, within any city or town covered by a proclamation made under

section 35.68, during the time the proclamation is in force, unless the dog is effectivelymuzzled so that it cannot bite any other animal or person. Sec. 35.69 also allows any

person to kill a dog found running at large contrary to a rabies proclamation.MO - Dog Ordinances - Chapter 77. Third Class Cities.

MO ST 77.510
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This Missouri statute provides that a city council may tax, restrain and prohibit therunning at large of dogs, and provide for their destruction when at large contrary to

ordinance, and impose penalties on the owners or keepers thereof.MO - Dogs - Consolidated Dog LawsMO ST 273.010 - 405

These Missouri statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Among the provisions includelaws for impounding loose dogs, licensing, rabies control, and the Animal Care FacilitiesAct, which regulates commercial breeders/pet shops.

MO - Ordinances - Chapter 79. Fourth Class Cities. Police and Health RegulationsMO ST 79.400

This Missouri statute provides that a local board of aldermen may tax, regulate andrestrain and prohibit the running at large of dogs, and provide for their destruction when

at large contrary to ordinance, and impose penalties on the owners or keepers thereof.

MO - Rabies - Chapter 322. Protection Against Rabies

MO ST 322.090 - 322.145This chapter concerns laws preventing the transmission and control of rabies and otherzoonotic diseases. Section 322.140 provides that if a county does not adopt rules and

regulations pursuant to sections 322.090 to 322.130, whenever an animal bites orotherwise possibly transmits rabies or any zoonotic disease, the incident shall beimmediately reported to the county health department. It also provides that the owner ofan owner that bites is responsible for the costs associated with rabies testing and/or

treatment. Further, the owner of an animal that bites or otherwise possibly transmittedrabies or any zoonotic disease shall be liable to an injured party for all damages done

by the animal.MS - Dangerous Animal - Chapter 3. Crimes Against the Person.

MS ST 97-3-45This Mississippi law makes an owner liable for manslaughter if he or she wilfully allows

a mischievous animal to go at large, or it goes at large because the owner fails toexercise ordinary care, and the animal, while at large or not confined, kills any human

being who took reasonable precautions to avoid the animal.MS - Dog - Consolidated Dog Laws

MS ST 19-5-50; 19-25-83; 19-5-3; 21-19-9; 21-21-5; 41-53-1 - 13; 49-7-42; 69-29-2; 73-39-89; 95-5-19 - 21These Mississippi statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Included are provisions

relating to hunting with dogs, local dog ordinances, and liability of owners for damage

done by dogs.MT - Bite - Chapter 1. Availability of Remedies--Liability.

MT ST 27-1-715This Montana statute provides that the owner of any dog which shall without provocation

bite any person while such person is on or in a public place or lawfully on or in a privateplace, including the property of the owner of such dog, located within an incorporated

city or town shall be liable for such damages as may be suffered by the person bitten
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regardless of the former viciousness of such dog or the owner's knowledge of suchviciousness.

MT - Dangerous - CHAPTER 23. DOMESTIC ANIMAL CONTROL AND PROTECTION.

MT ST 7-23-2109

This Montana statute provides that the county governing body may regulate, restrain,control, kill, or quarantine any vicious dog, whether such dog is licensed or unlicensed,by the adoption of an ordinance which substantially complies with state dangerous dog

laws.MT - Dogs - Consolidated Dog Laws

MT ST 7-23-101 to 7-23-105; 7-23-2108 to 7-23-4104; 7-23-4201 to 7-23-4203; 27-1-715; 81-7-401 to 81-7-403

These Montana statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Among the provisions includestrict liability for all dog bites, authority for counties to enact ordinances regarding

dangerous dogs, barking dogs, and destruction of unlicensed dogs, as well as general

laws related to registration and licensing.MT - Licenses - Chapter 23. Domestic Animal Control and Protection.MT ST 7-23-4103

This Montana statute relates to annual dog licenses issued by municipal corporationspursuant to an ordinance which substantially complies with state law.MT - Ordinance - Chapter 23. Domestic Animal Control and Protection.MT ST 7-23-2108

This Montana statute provides that the governing body of the county may regulate,restrain, or prohibit the running at large of dogs by the adoption of an ordinance which

substantially complies with state law provisions related to licensing. Violation of anordinance adopted is a misdemeanor. Additionally, the county governing body is

authorized to impound, sell, kill, or otherwise destroy dogs found at large contrary toordinances.

NC - Bite - Chapter 67. Dogs. Article 1A. Dangerous Dogs.NC ST 67-1 to 18; NC ST 130A-196, 130A-200

These North Carolina statutes comprise the state's dangerous dog and dog bite laws.Among the provisions include misdemeanor penalties for an owner if a dangerous

dog attacks a person and causes physical injuries requiring medical treatment in excessof one hundred dollars ($100.00) and strict liability in civil damages for any injuries orproperty damage the dog inflicts upon a person, his property, or another animal.

Another statute provides that any person brought to receive medical treatment for a dog

bite must report it to the local health director and the animal must be confined for a tenday observation period.

NC - Dangerous Dogs - Chapter 67. DogsNC ST 67-14.1

This North Carolina statute provides that any dog which trails, runs, injures or kills anydeer or bear on any wildlife refuge, sanctuary or management area designated by the

Wildlife Resources Commission, during the closed season for hunting with dogs on such
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refuge or management area, is hereby declared to be a public nuisance, and any wildlifeprotector may destroy it by humane method. Any unmuzzled dog running at large in

such area shall be impounded and notice shall be published in some newspaperpublished in the county for two successive weeks. If no owner comes to claim the dog,it may be destroyed within 15 days after publication.

NC - Dogs - Consolidated Dog LawsNC ST 14-81 to 82; 19A-20 to 44; 19A-60 to 65; 67-1 - 36; 90-187.7; 113-291.5; 130A-184 to 204; 145-13; 160A-186; 160A-212

These North Carolina statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Among the provisionsinclude pet shop provisions, rabies vaccination laws, and the dangerous dog chapter.

NC - Ordinances - Chapter 67. Dogs.NC ST 67-4.5

This North Carolina statute provides that nothing in the dangerous dog laws shall beconstrued to prevent a city or county from adopting or enforcing its own program for

control of dangerous dogs.

ND - Dogs - Consolidated Dog LawsND ST 11-11-14; 20.1-04-12 - 12.2; 20.1-05-02.1; 23-36-01 - 09; 36-21-10 - 11; 40-05-01

-2; 40-05-19; 42-03-01 - 04; 43-29-16.1These statutes comprise North Dakota's dog laws. Among the provisions includemunicipal powers to regulate dogs, rabies, control laws, provisions that define dogs as apublic nuisance, and laws concerning dogs that harass big game or livestock.

ND - Ordinances - Chapter 40-05. Powers of Municipalities.ND ST 40-05-02

This North Dakota statute provides that the city council in a city operating under thecouncil form of government and the board of city commissioners in a city operating

under the commission system of government, in addition to the powers possessed by allmunicipalities, shall have power to license dogs and to regulate the keeping of dogs

including authorization for their disposition or destruction in order to protect the health,safety, and general welfare of the public.

NE - Dangerous - ARTICLE 6. DOGS AND CATS. (B) DANGEROUS DOGS.

NE ST 54-617 to 54-624These Nebraska statutes outline the state's dangerous dog laws. Among the provisionsinclude a requirement that the dog must be restrained when not in a secure enclosure

on the owner's property. There is also a requirement that owners must post warning

signs on the property notifying people that a dangerous dog is present. If a dangerousdog bites a person, the owner can be found guilty of a Class IV misdemeanor and the

dog will be destroyed.NE - Dangerous Dog - 54-624. CHAPTER 54. LIVESTOCK .

NE ST 54-624This Nebraska statute provides that nothing in the state dangerous dog laws (sections

54-617 to 54-623) shall be construed to restrict or prohibit any governing board of any
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county, city, or village from establishing and enforcing laws or ordinances at least asstringent as the provisions of sections 54-617 to 54-623.

NE - Dogs - Consolidated Dog LawsNE ST 14-102; 15-218 - 220; 16-206; 16-235; 17-526, 17-547; 25-21,236; 37-

525; 37-705; 54-601 - 616; 54-617 - 624; 54-625 - 650; 71-4401 - 4412These Nebraska statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Among the provisions includethe municipal authority to regulate dogs at large and licensing, rabies control, and

dangerous dog laws. The set of laws relating to commercial pet dealers and breeders isalso provided.

NE - Licenses - Chapter 15. Cities of the Primary Class.NE ST 15-220

This Nebraska statute provides that a primary city shall have power to regulate, license,or prohibit the running at large of dogs and other animals and guard against injuries or

annoyances therefrom, and to authorize the destruction of the same when running at

large contrary to the provisions of any ordinance.NE - Licenses - Chapter 15. Cities of the Primary ClassNE ST 15-218

This Nebraska statue provides that a primary city shall have power, by ordinance, toregulate or prohibit the running at large of cattle, hogs, horses, mules, sheep, goats,dogs, and other animals and to cause these animals to be impounded and sold todischarge the cost of impoundment.

NE - Licenses -Chapter 17. Cities of the Second Class And Villages.NE ST 17-526

This Nebraska statute provides that second-class cities and villages may, by ordinance,impose a license tax for each dog or other animal and cause the destruction of any dog

or other animal when the owner or harborer shall refuse or neglect to pay such license.Such municipality may regulate, license, or prohibit the running at large of dogs and

other animals and guard against injuries or annoyances therefrom and authorize thedestruction of the same when running at large contrary to the provisions of any

ordinance.NH - Dog Bite - Chapter 466. Dogs and Cats.

NH ST 466:31Under this section, a dog is considered to be a nuisance, a menace, or vicious topersons or to property if it is "at large," if it barks for sustained periods, if it chases cars

continuously, or if it growls, snaps at or bites persons. If a dog bites a person and

breaks the skin, the animal control officer must inform the victim whether the dog wasvaccinated against rabies within 24 hours.

NH - Dogs - Consolidated Dog LawsNH ST 466:1 - 466:54; 47:17; 207:11 - 207:13b; 210:18; 264:31; 436:99 - 436:109;

437:1 - 2437:2; 437-A:1 - 9; 508:18-aThese New Hampshire statutes comprise the state's dog laws. Among the provisions

include licensing requirements, dangerous dog laws, and the rabies control code.
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NH - Exotic Pets - Chapter 466-A. Wolf HybridsNH S

Documents

Dangerous Dog Statutes