3.2-6503 - Care of companion animals by owner; penalty. - Virginia Statutes

§ 3.2-6503. Care of companion animals by owner; penalty.

A. Each owner shall provide for each of his companion animals:

1. Adequate feed;

2. Adequate water;

3. Adequate shelter that is properly cleaned;

4. Adequate space in the primary enclosure for the particular type of animaldepending upon its age, size, species, and weight;

5. Adequate exercise;

6. Adequate care, treatment, and transportation; and

7. Veterinary care when needed to prevent suffering or disease transmission.

The provisions of this section shall also apply to every pound, animalshelter, or other releasing agency, and every foster care provider, dealer,pet shop, exhibitor, kennel, groomer, and boarding establishment. Thissection shall not require that animals used as food for other animals beeuthanized.

B. Violation of this section is a Class 4 misdemeanor. A second or subsequentviolation of subdivision A 1, A 2, A 3, or A 7 is a Class 2 misdemeanor and asecond or subsequent violation of subdivision A 4, A 5, or A 6 is a Class 3misdemeanor.

(1984, c. 492, § 29-213.38; 1987, c. 488, § 3.1-796.68; 1991, c. 348; 1993,c. 174; 1996, c. 249; 1998, c. 817; 2002, c. 787; 2003, c. 1007; 2008, c.860; 2010, c. 875.)