This bill amends Washington's animal cruelty laws to enhance the definitions and standards of care for animals, introducing a more detailed definition of "necessary food" that emphasizes species-appropriate, accessible, and sufficient provisions for maintaining animal health. It expands definitions for "necessary medical attention," "necessary sanitation," "necessary shelter," "necessary space," and "necessary water" to ensure adequate care and living conditions for animals. The bill clarifies the roles of animal control officers and law enforcement in seizing animals in imminent danger and outlines procedures for such seizures, including the requirement for owners to post a bond for the care of seized animals. If the bond is not posted within a specified timeframe, the animal is considered abandoned.

Additionally, the bill allows for voluntary, permanent relinquishment of animals by owners to law enforcement or animal control agencies without affecting any potential criminal charges. It reduces the confinement period for domestic animals without necessary food and water from thirty-six hours to twenty-four hours and permits officers to enter properties to provide care if animals' health is at risk. The legislation strengthens penalties for animal fighting and cruelty, introduces a new offense of "Animal Fighting (without intentional mutilation)," and modifies the classification of certain crimes. Overall, the bill aims to bolster animal welfare protections and ensure humane treatment while expanding legal accountability for animal-related offenses.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 16.52.011, 16.52.085, 16.52.100, 16.52.117, 16.52.200