§ 10-604. Abuse or neglect of animal

MD Crim Law Code § 10-604 (2019) (N/A)

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(a) A person may not:

(1) overdrive or overload an animal;

(2) deprive an animal of necessary sustenance;

(3) inflict unnecessary suffering or pain on an animal;

(4) cause, procure, or authorize an act prohibited under item (1), (2), or (3) of this subsection; or

(5) if the person has charge or custody of an animal, as owner or otherwise, unnecessarily fail to provide the animal with:

(i) nutritious food in sufficient quantity;

(ii) necessary veterinary care;

(iii) proper drink;

(iv) proper air;

(v) proper space;

(vi) proper shelter; or

(vii) proper protection from the weather.

(b) (1) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

(2) As a condition of sentencing, the court may order a defendant convicted of violating this section to:

(i) participate in and pay for psychological counseling; and

(ii) pay, in addition to any other fines and costs, all reasonable costs incurred in removing, housing, treating, or euthanizing an animal confiscated from the defendant.

(3) As a condition of probation, the court may prohibit a defendant from owning, possessing, or residing with an animal.

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