Section 77-1-17 - Abandoned dogs and cats; notice to owner; disposal without liability. - New Mexico Statutes

77-1-17. Abandoned dogs and cats; notice to owner; disposal without liability.

A.     As used in this act [section], "custodian" means the owner or operator of a veterinary clinic or hospital, a doctor of veterinary medicine, a kennel, grooming parlor or other animal care facility.   

B.     Any dog or cat placed in the custody of a veterinarian, kennel, animal clinic or hospital, grooming parlor or other animal care facility shall be deemed to be abandoned if, after the term of any agreement for board or other care has expired, the dog or cat has not been reclaimed within ten days after written notice has been given the owner or his agent by registered or certified mail.   

C.     Any dog or cat deemed abandoned under the provisions of Subsection B of this section, may be disposed of by the custodian if not reclaimed. Notice of the intent to dispose of a dog or cat shall be given to the owner or his agent by registered or certified mail. Such notice, when sent to the address given to the custodian by the owner, shall relieve the custodian from all liability to the owner or his agent for the disposal of the dog or cat.   

D.     The custodian may turn over an abandoned dog or cat to the municipal or county animal control center, pound or shelter for disposal by them. Nothing in this act [section] shall affect the holding time or notice procedures regarding any municipal or county control facility which is owned or operated by, or is under contract or franchise to, a municipality or county.   

E.     Nothing in this act [section] shall relieve the owner of a dog or cat for the payment of all reasonable charges for medical or care services rendered to the dog or cat while in the custody of a veterinarian, kennel, animal clinic or hospital, grooming parlor or other animal care facility.