§ 35-42-108 — Care of confined animal

(1) Except as authorized by law, a
person shall not confine an animal without an adequate supply of food and water. If
an animal is found to be confined without adequate food or water, an officer or
agent of the bureau, a peace officer within the peace officer's jurisdiction, or a
licensed veterinarian may, from time to time as necessary, enter into and upon any
area or building where such animal is confined and supply the animal with adequate
food and water; except that such entry shall not be made into a building that is a
person's residence, unless by search warrant or court order.

(2) Such officer, agent, peace officer, or veterinarian shall not be liable in any
action for such entry.

(3) Notice of the entry and care shall be given by posting such notification at
an entrance to or at a conspicuous place upon such area or building where such
animal is confined.

(4) In the case of companion animals, if such animal is not cared for by a
person other than an agent or officer of the bureau or a peace officer or
veterinarian within seventy-two hours of the posting of said notification, such
animal shall be presumed to have been abandoned under circumstances in which
the animal's life or health is endangered.

Legislative History

Source: L. 90: Entire article R&RE, p. 1607, � 1, effective July 1. L. 2025: (1) amended, (HB 25-1084), ch. 24, p. 124, � 105, effective August 6.