This bill aims to enhance the welfare of domestic animals in West Virginia by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions. It establishes definitions for key terms related to animal care, such as "humane officer," "primary enclosure," and "temporary enclosure." The responsibilities of humane officers are updated to include enforcing animal cruelty laws and reporting suspected abuse or neglect. The bill also outlines an owner's duty of care for companion animals, requiring adequate food, water, shelter, exercise, and veterinary care, while mandating the confinement of unspayed female dogs in estrus. Additionally, it increases penalties for repeat offenders of animal cruelty and introduces new criminal offenses, including unlawful confinement and animal hoarding.

The legislation imposes stricter regulations on the treatment and care of animals, including penalties for administering controlled substances to animals in contests, with fines ranging from $500 to $3,000 for repeat offenders. Individuals convicted of animal cruelty will be required to undergo psychiatric evaluations and may need to complete anger management programs. The bill allows courts to prohibit convicted individuals from owning or residing with animals, with violations leading to fines and forfeiture of the animal. It also defines unlawful confinement and animal hoarding, establishing penalties for violations and ensuring that animals found in hoarding situations are removed and placed in shelters for proper care. Overall, the proposed amendments and additions aim to strengthen protections for animals and promote responsible ownership.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 7-10-2, 7-10-4, 19-20-22, 61-8-19, 7-10-1a, 19-20-12a, 61-8-19d, 61-8-19e