This bill amends existing laws concerning pet vendor foster homes and the treatment of livestock in animal cruelty cases. It introduces new definitions for "pet vendor foster home" and "pet vendor foster facility," emphasizing that care must be in the best interest of the animals as determined by a licensed veterinarian. Pet vendors are now required to report annually on their foster homes to the Department of Agriculture, with this information being kept confidential. Key changes include the insertion of language that allows for the confiscation of livestock only when a person is charged with cruelty, necessitating a veterinarian's assessment before such action. The bill also prioritizes cases involving confiscated livestock in court and establishes a process for individuals with ownership claims to petition for temporary custody, ensuring their rights are considered.

Additionally, the bill allows law enforcement or municipal animal control officers to take livestock into protective custody without a warrant if there is probable cause of imminent danger to the animals. It mandates written notice at the location of confiscation detailing the circumstances and procedures for reclaiming the livestock. Importantly, it prohibits custodians from spaying, neutering, or permanently altering confiscated livestock unless necessary or agreed upon by the owner. The costs of care for confiscated livestock will be the responsibility of the convicted individual, and any donations raised using the animals' likenesses must offset these costs. The bill also protects veterinarians from civil or criminal liability for their decisions during cruelty investigations and clarifies the state veterinarian's role in enforcing animal welfare laws. The effective date for certain sections is set for January 1, 2027, while the remainder will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 437:1
As Amended by the Senate: 437:1
As Amended by the House: 437:1, 437:3, 644:8, 436:8
SB475 text: 437:1