Connecticut Consolidated Dog Law/Dangerous Dog Law

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Connecticut

Title 22. Agriculture. Domestic Animals. Chapter 435. Dogs and Other Companion Animals. Kennels and Pet Shops.

Statute Details
Printable Version
Citation: CT ST � 22-327 to � 22-367a

Citation: C.G.S.A. � 22-327 to � 22-367a

Summary:

These Connecticut statutes comprise the state's dog law. Among the provisions include licensing, kennel, and rabies regulations. With regard to damage by dogs, the law provides a form of strict liability that states if any dog does any damage to either the body or property of any person, the owner or keeper shall be liable for such damage, except when such damage has been occasioned to the body or property of a person who, at the time such damage was sustained, was committing a trespass or other tort, or was teasing, tormenting or abusing such dog. The law also contains a unique "dogs on highway" provision that provides that any person owning or having the custody of any dog which habitually goes out on any highway and growls, bites, or snaps at, or otherwise annoys, any person or domestic animal lawfully using such highway or chases or interferes with any motor vehicle so using such highway, shall be fined or imprisoned. Further, among the nuisance provisions, the law states that no person shall own or harbor a dog which is a nuisance by reason of vicious disposition or excessive barking or other disturbance. Finally, Connecticut has an anti-ear cropping measures that prohibits cropping by anyone who is not a registered veterinary surgeon, and who performs the operation when the dog is under an anesthetic.

Statute in Full:

Title 26. Fisheries and Game. Chapter 490. Fisheries and Game. Part VII. Fish and Game Refuges

§ 26-107. Hunting and trapping on wildlife refuge or closed area

§ 22-327. Definitions

As used in this chapter:

(1) "Animal" means any brute creature, including, but not limited to, dogs, cats, monkeys, guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, birds and reptiles;

(2) "Chief Animal Control Officer", Assistant Chief Animal Control Officer" and "Animal Control Officer" mean, respectively, the Chief State Animal Control Officer, the Assistant Chief State Animal Control Officer and a State Animal Control Officer appointed under section 22-328;

(3) "Commercial kennel" means a kennel maintained for boarding or grooming dogs or cats, and includes, but is not limited to, any veterinary hospital which boards or grooms dogs or cats for nonmedical purposes;

(4) "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Agriculture;

(5) "Grooming facility" means any place, other than a commercial kennel, which is maintained as a business where dogs are groomed;

(6) "Keeper" means any person, other than the owner, harboring or having in his possession any dog;

(7) "Kennel" means one pack or collection of dogs which are kept under one ownership at a single location and are bred for show, sport or sale;

(8) "Municipal animal control officer" means any such officer appointed under the provisions of section 22-331;

(9) "Pet shop" means any place at which animals not born and raised on the premises are kept for the purpose of sale to the public;

(10) "Poultry" means all domestic fowl and any pheasants or other game birds securely confined and lawfully owned and possessed by any person under the provisions of section 26-40;

(11) "Regional animal control officer" and "assistant regional animal control officer" means a regional Connecticut animal control officer and an assistant regional Connecticut animal control officer appointed under the provisions of section 22-331a;

(12) "Training facility" means any place, other than a commercial kennel or grooming facility, which is maintained as a business where dogs are trained.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3374; 1949, Supp. § 709b; 1953, Supp. §§ 1370c, 1812d; 1959, P.A. 637, § 2; 1961, P.A. 67; 1963, P.A. 613, § 1; 1969, P.A. 81, § 1; 1969, P.A. 423, § 1; 1971, P.A. 872, § 446; 1972, P.A. 180, § 1; 1977, P.A. 77-314, § 1; 1982 P.A. 82-91, § 14, eff. July 1, 1982; 1991, P.A. 91-46, § 10, eff. April 12, 1991; 1991, P.A. 91-59, § 1; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 29, eff. June 28, 1993; 1998, P.A. 98- 12, § 3, eff. July 1, 1998; 2003, June 30 Sp.Sess., P.A. 03-6, § 146, eff. July 1, 2004; 2004, P.A. 04-189, § 1, eff. June 1, 2004.)

§ 22-327a. Omitted in Gen.St., Rev. to 1972

§ 22-328. Enforcement. Animal control officers. Expenses

(a) The commissioner is authorized to enforce the provisions of this chapter and chapters 436 [FN1] and 436a [FN2] and the regulations adopted thereunder in accordance with the provisions of such chapters and chapter 54. [FN3]

(b) The commissioner shall appoint, as provided by chapter 67: [FN4] (1) A Chief State Animal Control Officer; (2) an Assistant Chief State Animal Control Officer, who shall perform all the duties of the Chief State Animal Control Officer in such officer's absence or inability, or at such officer's direction; and (3) not more than twelve State Animal control officers and as many regional animal control officers and assistants as may be deemed necessary to insure, subject to the commissioner's direction, the enforcement of the provisions of this chapter and chapters 436 and 436a and the enforcement of regulations adopted by the commissioner. The expenses incurred in the administration of this chapter and chapters 436 and 436a shall be paid from dog funds in the custody of the State Treasurer which have been received from the several municipalities and from the commissioner for the same fiscal year as the expenses are incurred.

[FN1] C.G.S.A. § 22-368 et seq.

[FN2] C.G.S.A. § 22-380a et seq.

[FN3] C.G.S.A. § 4-166 et seq.

[FN4] C.G.S.A. § 5-193 et seq.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3375; 1953, Supp. § 1371c; 1955, Supp. § 1813d; 1963, P.A. 613, § 2; 1965, Feb. Sp.Sess., P.A. 143, § 1, eff. June 7, 1965; 1969, P.A. 81, § 2; 1982, P.A. 82-119, § 1; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 30, eff. June 28, 1993; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 4, eff. July 1, 1998.)

§ 22-329. Prevention of cruelty to dogs and other animals

The commissioner, the Chief Animal Control Officer, any animal control officer, any municipal animal control officer or any law enforcement officer may interfere to prevent any act of cruelty upon any dog or other animal, and any person who interferes with or obstructs or resists the commissioner or any such officer in the discharge of such duty shall be fined not more than fifty dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3376; 1953, Supp. §§ 1372c, 1814d; 1969, P.A. 81, § 4; 1991, P.A. 91-59, § 2; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 31, eff. June 28, 1993; 1995, P.A. 95-358, § 1; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 5, eff. July 1, 1998.)

§ 22-329a. Seizure of neglected or cruelly treated animals. Notice. Hearing. Posting of bond. Proceedings re ownership. Animal abuse cost recovery account. Report to General Assembly

(a) The Chief Animal Control Officer, any animal control officer or any municipal or regional animal control officer may take physical custody of any animal when such animal control officer has reasonable cause to believe that such animal is in imminent harm and is neglected or is cruelly treated in violation of section 22-366, 22-415, 53-247, 53-248, 53-249, 53-249a, 53-250, 53-251 or 53-252, and, not later than ninety-six hours after taking physical custody, shall proceed as provided in subsection (c) of this section, except that if, in the opinion of a licensed veterinarian or the State Veterinarian, at any time after physical custody of such animal is taken, such animal is so injured or diseased that it should be destroyed immediately, such officer may humanely destroy or cause such animal to be humanely destroyed.

(b) The Chief Animal Control Officer, any animal control officer or any municipal or regional animal control officer may take physical custody of any animal upon issuance of a warrant finding probable cause that such animal is neglected or is cruelly treated in violation of section 22-366, 22-415, 53-247, 53-248, 53-249, 53-249a, 53-250, 53-251 or 53-252, and shall thereupon proceed as provided in subsection (c) of this section except that if, in the opinion of a licensed veterinarian or the State Veterinarian, at any time after physical custody of such animal is taken, such animal is so injured or diseased that it should be destroyed immediately, such officer may humanely destroy or cause such animal to be humanely destroyed.

(c) Such officer shall file with the superior court which has venue over such matter or with the superior court for the judicial district of Hartford at Hartford a verified petition plainly stating such facts of neglect or cruel treatment as to bring such animal within the jurisdiction of the court and praying for appropriate action by the court in accordance with the provisions of this section. Upon the filing of such petition, the court shall cause a summons to be issued requiring the owner or owners or person having responsibility for the care of the animal, if known, to appear in court at the time and place named.

(d) If physical custody of an animal has been taken pursuant to subsection (a) or (b) of this section and it appears from the allegations of the petition filed pursuant to subsection (c) of this section and other affirmations of fact accompanying the petition, or provided subsequent thereto, that there is reasonable cause to find that the animal's condition or the circumstances surrounding its care require that temporary care and custody be immediately assumed to safeguard its welfare, the court shall either (1) issue an order to show cause why the court should not vest in some suitable state, municipal or other public or private agency or person the animal's temporary care and custody pending a hearing on the petition, or (2) issue an order vesting in some suitable state, municipal or other public or private agency or person the animal's temporary care and custody pending a hearing on the petition. A hearing on the order issued by the court pursuant to subdivision (1) or (2) of this subsection shall be held not later than fourteen days after the issuance of such order. The service of such order may be made by any officer authorized by law to serve process, state police officer or indifferent person and shall be served not less than forty-eight hours prior to the date and time of such hearing. If the owner or owners or person having responsibility for the care of the animal is not known, notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given by publication in a newspaper having a circulation in the town in which such officer took physical custody of such animal not less than forty-eight hours prior to the date and time of such hearing.

(e) If physical custody of an animal has not been taken pursuant to subsection (a) or (b) of this section, and the Chief Animal Control Officer, any animal control officer or any municipal or regional animal control officer has reasonable cause to believe that an animal is neglected or is cruelly treated in violation of section 22-366, 22-415, 53-247, 53-248, 53-249, 53-249a, 53-250, 53-251 or 53-252, such animal control officer may file a petition with the superior court which has venue over such matter or with the superior court for the judicial district of Hartford at Hartford, plainly stating such facts of neglect or cruel treatment as to bring the animal within the jurisdiction of the court and praying for appropriate action by the court to ensure the welfare of the animal including, but not limited to, physical removal and temporary care and custody of the animal, authorization of an animal control officer or a licensed veterinarian to provide care for the animal on site, vesting of ownership of the animal, the posting of a bond in accordance with subsection (f) of this section and the assessment of costs in accordance with subsection (h) of this section. Upon the filing of such petition, the court shall cause a summons for an order to show cause to be issued requiring the owner or owners or person having responsibility for the care of the animal, if known, to appear in court at the time and place named. If the owner or owners or person having responsibility for the care of the animal is not known, notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given by publication in a newspaper having a circulation in the town where the animal is located not less than forty-eight hours prior to the date and time of the hearing. If it appears from the allegations of the petition filed pursuant to this subsection and other affirmations of fact accompanying the petition, or provided subsequent thereto, that there is reasonable cause to find that the animal's condition or the circumstances surrounding its care require the immediate removal of the animal from the owner or owners or person having responsibility for the care of the animal to safeguard its welfare, the court shall issue an order vesting in some suitable state, municipal or other public or private agency or person the animal's temporary care and custody pending a hearing on the petition which hearing shall be held not later than ten days after the issuance of such order for such temporary care and custody. The service of such order may be made by any officer authorized by law to serve process, state police officer or indifferent person and shall be served not less than forty-eight hours prior to the date and time of such hearing.

(f) If the court issues an order vesting the animal's temporary care and custody in some suitable state, municipal or other public or private agency or person, the owner or owners shall either relinquish ownership of the animal or post a surety bond or cash bond with the agency or person in whom the animal's temporary care and custody was vested. The surety bond or cash bond shall be in the amount of five hundred dollars and shall secure payment for the reasonable expenses of the agency or person having temporary care and custody of the animal in caring and providing for such animal until the court makes a finding as to the animal's disposition under subsection (g) of this section. The requirement that a bond be posted may be waived if such owner provides satisfactory evidence that such owner is indigent and unable to pay for such bond.

(g) (1) If, after hearing, the court finds that the animal is neglected or cruelly treated, it shall vest ownership of the animal in any state, municipal or other public or private agency which is permitted by law to care for neglected or cruelly treated animals or with any person found to be suitable or worthy of such responsibility by the court.

(2) If, after hearing, the court finds that the animal is so injured or diseased that it should be destroyed, the court may order that such animal be humanely destroyed.

(3) If, after hearing, the court finds that the animal is not neglected or cruelly treated, it may cause the animal to be returned to its owner or owners or person having responsibility for its care or, if such owner or owners or person is unknown or unwilling to resume caring for such animal, it may vest ownership of the animal in any state, municipal or other public or private agency or person found to be suitable or worthy of such responsibility.

(4) If the court makes a finding under subdivision (1) or (2) of this subsection less than thirty days after the issuance of an order of temporary care and custody and the owner of the animal has posted a bond, the agency or person with whom the bond was posted shall return the balance of such bond, if any, to the owner. The amount of the bond to be returned to the owner shall be calculated at the rate of fifteen dollars per day per animal or twenty-five dollars per day per animal if the animal is a horse or other large livestock for the number of days less than thirty that such agency or person has not had temporary care and custody of the animal less any veterinary costs and expenses incurred for the welfare of the animal.

(5) If the court makes a finding under subdivision (3) of this subsection after the issuance of an order of temporary care and custody and the owner of the animal has posted a bond, the agency or person with whom the bond was posted shall return such bond to such owner.

(h) If the court finds that the animal is neglected or cruelly treated, the expenses incurred by the state or a municipality in providing proper food, shelter and care to an animal it has taken custody of under subsection (a) or (b) of this section and the expenses incurred by any state, municipal or other public or private agency or person in providing temporary care and custody pursuant to an order vesting temporary care and custody, calculated at the rate of fifteen dollars per day per animal or twenty-five dollars per day per animal if the animal is a horse or other large livestock until the date ownership is vested pursuant to subdivision (1) of subsection (g) of this section shall be paid by the owner or owners or person having responsibility for the care of the animal. In addition, all veterinary costs and expenses incurred for the welfare of the animal that are not covered by the per diem rate shall be paid by the owner or owners or person having responsibility for the animal.

(i) If the court vests ownership of the animal in the Commissioner of Agriculture or a municipality, the commissioner or the municipality may conduct or participate in a public auction of the animal under such conditions the commissioner or the municipality deems necessary or the commissioner or the municipality may consign the animal to an auction or sell the animal through an open advertised bid process whereby bid price and demonstration of sufficient knowledge and ability to care for such animal are factors for the commissioner's or municipality's consideration. All moneys collected from the sale of animals sold by the Commissioner of Agriculture through such open advertised bid process shall be deposited in the "animal abuse cost recovery account" established in subsection (j) of this section. All moneys collected from the sale of animals sold by a municipality through such open advertised bid process shall be deposited by the town treasurer or other fiscal officer in the town's general fund. In a case where rehabilitative or special care of such animal is required, the commissioner or the municipality may vest ownership of such animal in an individual or a public or private nonprofit animal rescue or adoption organization which annually places ten or more animals in private homes as pets.

(j) There is established a separate, nonlapsing account within the General Fund, to be known as the "animal abuse cost recovery account". All moneys collected from sales at public auction of animals seized by the Department of Agriculture pursuant to this section shall be deposited into the account. Deposits of moneys may be made into the account from public or private sources, including, but not limited to, the federal government or municipal governments.

(k) Notwithstanding any provision of the general statutes, any moneys received by the Department of Agriculture pursuant to subsection (j) of this section shall be deposited in the General Fund and credited to the animal abuse cost recovery account. The account shall be available to the Commissioner of Agriculture for the purpose of the housing, care and welfare of any animal seized by the department, until final disposition of such animal. Nothing in this section shall prevent the commissioner from obtaining or using funds from sources other than the account for the housing, care and welfare of any animal seized by the department pursuant to this section.

CREDIT(S)

(1995, P.A. 95-358, § 2; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 6, eff. July 1, 1998; 2003, June 30 Sp.Sess., P.A. 03-6, § 146, eff. July 1, 2004; 2004, P.A. 04-145, § 1, eff. May 21, 2004; 2004, P.A. 04-189, § 1, eff. June 1, 2004; 2007, P.A. 07-230, § 1.)

§ 22-330. Authority of officers issuing summons

The commissioner, the Chief Animal Control Officer and any animal control officer in any part of the state, any regional animal control officer in the territory to which he is assigned and any municipal animal control officer in the municipality for which he has been appointed may arrest any person and may issue a written complaint and summons in furtherance thereof for any violation of any law relating to dogs or to any domestic animal in the same manner police officers or constables may exercise in their respective jurisdictions.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3377; 1953, Supp. §§ 1373c, 1815d; 1963, P.A. 613, § 3; 1969, P.A. 81, § 4; 1976, P.A. 76-381, § 35; 1991, P.A. 91-59, § 3; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 32, eff. June 28, 1993; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 7, eff. July 1, 1998; 2000, P.A. 00-99, § 63, eff. Dec. 1, 2000.)

§ 22-331. Municipal animal control officers. Assistants

(a) In each municipality of the state having a population of more than twenty- five thousand which has adopted the provisions of chapter 113, [FN1] or otherwise provided for a merit system for its employees, the chief of police, or such other appointing authority as the charter may designate, shall, appoint a full-time municipal animal control officer and such assistants as are deemed necessary, subject to the provisions of said chapter 113 or other merit system, to administer and enforce the laws relating to dogs or other domestic animals. Any person so appointed may be or become a member of the police department and for such purpose the legislative body of such municipality may waive any requirements as to age, sex, physical condition, education and training applicable to other members of the police department. Any person so appointed as a member of the police department shall be fully eligible to participate in the retirement system of such department.

(b) Except as provided in section 22-331a, the chief or superintendent of

police in each other city or town having a police department and the selectmen or chief executive officer in each town which has no police department, or such other appointing authority as the charter of such town may designate, in their respective jurisdictions, shall appoint a municipal animal control officer and such assistants as are deemed necessary to administer and enforce the laws relating to dogs. Such officer and assistants shall have such qualifications as the commissioner may prescribe and shall serve for a term of at least one year.

(c) Each appointment made under the provisions of this section shall be reported promptly to the commissioner. Each person appointed under the provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall, and any person appointed under the provisions of subsection (b) of this section may, be paid a salary and expenses in lieu of the fees provided in section 22-334 and the amount thereof shall be transferred from the dog fund account to the appropriation of the proper department.

(d) The municipal animal control officer so appointed in any city the limits of which are not coterminous with those of the town in which it is located shall have authority as such municipal animal control officer throughout such town, and the town treasurer or other fiscal officer shall annually reimburse the city, from the dog fund account, for the salaries and expenses of such officer or his assistants. The municipal animal control officer so appointed in any town having a borough within its limits shall have authority as such municipal animal control officer throughout the limits of such town. If, in any city or town, the officer or officers charged with such duty fail to report such appointment, the commissioner shall notify such officer or officers to make and report such appointment within ten days of receipt of such notification, and, if such appointment is not made within such time, the commissioner shall appoint a municipal animal control officer for such city or town.

[FN1] C.G.S.A. § 7-407 et seq.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3378; 1953, Supp. § 1374c; 1955, Supp. § 1816d; 1963, P.A. 613, § 4; 1965, Feb. Sp.Sess., P.A. 144, § 1, eff. June 7, 1965; 1991, P.A. 91-59, § 4; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 33, eff. June 28, 1993.)

§ 22-331a. Regional animal control officers. Pounds

Any two or more contiguous towns each of which has a population of less than twenty-five thousand, and which have or will provide a dog pound facility within their region, by action of their legislative bodies, may agree to be served by a regional animal control officer. Upon certification of such agreement to the commissioner with assurances from the towns so certifying that they will provide and continue to provide adequate facilities and compensation for such officer, the commissioner may, after giving due regard to the regional aspects of the proposed facilities and whether the proposed region would be in the best interests of the towns so certifying, establish such region. Each person so appointed shall have the same powers and duties within the region to which he is assigned as a municipal animal control officer in each town therein. All costs of maintaining and operating such pounds and administering and enforcing the laws relating to dogs within such regions shall be paid in accordance with the provisions of the agreement certified to the commissioner under this section.

CREDIT(S)

(1963, P.A. 613, § 5; 1967, P.A. 162, § 1, eff. May 27, 1967; 1969, P.A. 81, § 3; 1982, P.A. 82-440, § 1, eff. June 8, 1982; 1991, P.A. 91- 59, § 5; 1991, P.A. 91-131, § 1; 1992, P.A. 92-147, § 3, eff. July 1, 1992.)

§ 22-332. Impoundment and disposition of roaming, injured or mistreated animals

(a) The Chief Animal Control Officer, any animal control officer or any municipal animal control officer shall be responsible for the enforcement of this chapter and shall make diligent search and inquiry for any violation of any of its provisions. Any such officer may take into custody (1) any dog found roaming in violation of the provisions of section 22-364, (2) any dog not having a tag or plate on a collar about its neck or on a harness on its body as provided by law or which is not confined or controlled in accordance with the provisions of any order or regulation relating to rabies issued by the commissioner in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, or (3) any dog found injured on any highway, neglected, abandoned or cruelly treated. The officer shall impound such dog at the pound serving the town where the dog is taken unless, in the opinion of a licensed veterinarian, the dog is so injured or diseased that it should be destroyed immediately, in which case the municipal animal control officer of such town may cause the dog to be mercifully killed by a licensed veterinarian or disposed of as the State Veterinarian may direct. The municipal animal control officer shall immediately notify the owner or keeper of any dog so taken, if known, of its impoundment. Such officer shall immediately notify the owner or keeper of any other animal which is taken into custody, if such owner or keeper is known. If the owner or keeper of any such dog or other animal is unknown, the officer shall immediately tag or employ such other suitable means of identification of the dog or other animal as may be approved by the Chief Animal Control Officer and shall promptly cause a description of such dog or other animal to be published once in the lost and found column of a newspaper having a circulation in such town.

(b) If such dog or other animal is not claimed by and released to the owner within seven days after the date of publication, the municipal animal control officer, upon finding such dog or other animal to be in satisfactory health, may have a licensed veterinarian spay or neuter such dog and sell such dog or other animal to any person who satisfies such officer that he is purchasing it as a pet and that he can give it a good home and proper care. The municipal animal control officer may retain possession of such dog or other animal for such additional period of time as he may deem advisable in order to place such dog or other animal as a pet and may have a licensed veterinarian spay or neuter such dog. If, within such period, any dog or other animal is not claimed by and released to the owner or keeper or purchased as a pet, the officer shall cause such dog or other animal to be mercifully killed by a licensed veterinarian or disposed of as the State Veterinarian may direct. Any veterinarian who so destroys a dog shall be paid from the dog fund account. No person who so destroys a dog or other animal shall be held criminally or civilly liable therefor nor shall any licensed veterinarian who spays or neuters a dog pursuant to this section be held civilly liable, including, but not limited to, liability for reconstructive neutical implantation surgery.

(c) The town treasurer or other fiscal officer shall pay from the dog fund account the advertising expense incurred under the provisions of this section upon receipt of an itemized statement together with a copy of the advertisement as published. Any person who purchases a dog as a pet shall pay a fee of five dollars and procure a license and tag for such dog from the town clerk, in accordance with the provisions of section 22-338.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3379; 1951, Supp. § 710b; 1953, Supp. § 1375c; 1955, Supp. § 1817d; 1961, P.A. 517, § 21; 1963, P.A. 14, § 3; 1963, P.A. 613, § 35; 1969, P.A. 81, § 4; 1971, P.A. 76; 1974, P.A. 74-183, § 246, eff. Dec. 31, 1974; 1976 P.A. 76-436, § 212, eff. July 1, 1978; 1978, P.A. 78-280, § 1, eff. July 1, 1978; 1980, P.A. 80-315, § 1; 1986, P.A. 86-45; 1991, P.A. 91-59, § 6; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 34, eff. June 28, 1993; 1996, P.A. 96-243, § 15, eff. June 6, 1996; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 8, eff. July 1, 1998; 2003, P.A. 03-137, § 1.)

§ 22-332a. Use of dogs for medical research restricted

(a) No person shall procure or use any living dog for medical or biological teaching, research or study except a hospital, educational institution or laboratory licensed for such purpose in accordance with the provisions of section 22-332b. No such hospital, educational institution or laboratory shall purchase or accept, without fee, any living dog from any municipal animal control officer, pound, kennel or commercial kennel in this state.

(b) No animal control officer or municipal animal control officer shall sell, give or transfer any unclaimed, impounded dog to any animal dealer, whether or not such dealer is licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture.

CREDIT(S)

(1963, P.A. 14, § 1; 1980, P.A. 80-315, § 2; 1991, P.A. 91-59, § 7; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 9, eff. July 1, 1998.)

§ 22-332b. License for use of dogs

(a) Any hospital, educational institution or laboratory desiring to obtain a license to use living dogs in medical or biological teaching, research or study shall apply to the Commissioner of Public Health, on forms which said commissioner shall provide, giving its name, address, the nature of the activity for which a license is desired and the location at which such activity is to be conducted. Such application shall be accompanied by a fee of two hundred fifty dollars. Upon receipt of an application and fee, the Commissioner of Public Health shall cause an investigation to be made of the applicant and shall issue a license upon finding that the applicant (1) has adequate land, buildings, equipment and facilities to engage in the activity described in the application and (2) agrees to comply with all laws and regulations respecting the housing and care of dogs. Each license shall be in lieu of any license required by sections 22-338, 22-339, 22-342 and 22-344 and shall be issued only for the premises and activity described in the application. No license shall be transferable. Each license shall expire on June thirtieth following the date of issue and shall be renewable annually upon application and payment of a fee of two hundred fifty dollars.

(b) The Commissioner of Public Health shall suspend or revoke a license for wilful or material failure to comply with the provisions of this section or any law or regulation relating to the acquisition, housing and care of dogs. No such suspension or revocation shall be ordered except upon notice and hearing. Such notice shall be in writing and shall inform the licensee of the substance of the violation charged and that an opportunity for hearing will be provided upon written request filed within ten days after receipt of such notice. The Commissioner of Public Health shall file with each order suspending or revoking a license a finding of fact and statement of his conclusions and serve upon the licensee, by registered or certified mail, a copy of such order, finding and statement. Any person whose application for a license is denied or whose license is revoked or suspended under the provisions of this section may appeal therefrom in accordance with the provisions of section 4-183.

(c) The Commissioner of Public Health shall adopt regulations in accordance with chapter 54, [FN1] establishing humane standards for the proper housing, care, treatment, handling and disposition of dogs used by licensees under this section.

[FN1] C.G.S.A. § 4-166 et seq.

CREDIT(S)

(1963, P.A. 14, § 2; 1976, P.A. 76-436, § 456, eff. July 1, 1978; 1977, P.A. 77-603, § 98, eff. July 1, 1977; 1977, P.A. 77-614, § 323, eff. Jan. 1, 1979; 1991, June Sp.Sess., P.A. 91-11, § 13, eff. Sept. 1, 1991; 1993, P.A. 93-381, § 9, eff. July 1, 1993; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 35, eff. June 28, 1993; 1995, P.A. 95-257, §§ 12, 21, eff. July 1, 1995.)

§ 22-332c. Penalty

Any person who violates any provision of section 22-332, 22-332a or 22-332b shall be fined not more than one hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days or both.

CREDIT(S)

(1963, P.A. 14, § 4.)

§ 22-332d. Impoundment and disposition of certain cats

(a) Any animal control officer for a municipality which has adopted an ordinance under subsection (b) of section 22-339d may take into custody any cat found to be damaging property other than property of its owner or keeper or causing an unsanitary, dangerous or unreasonably offensive condition unless such cat can be identified as under the care of its owner or a registered keeper of feral cats. The officer shall impound such cat at the pound serving the town where the cat is taken unless, in the opinion of a licensed veterinarian, the cat is so injured or diseased that it should be destroyed immediately, in which case the municipal animal control officer of such town may cause the cat to be mercifully killed by a licensed veterinarian or disposed of as the State Veterinarian may direct. The municipal animal control officer shall immediately notify the owner or keeper of any cat so taken, if known, of its impoundment. If the owner or keeper of any such cat is unknown, the officer shall immediately tag or employ such other suitable means of identification of the cat as may be approved by the Chief Animal Control Officer and shall promptly cause a description of such cat to be published once in the lost and found column of a newspaper having a circulation in such town.

(b) If such cat is not claimed by and released to the owner within seven days after the date of publication, the municipal animal control officer, upon finding such cat to be in satisfactory health, may have a licensed veterinarian spay or neuter any such cat and sell such cat to any person who satisfies such officer that he is purchasing it as a pet and that he can give it a good home and proper care. The municipal animal control officer may retain possession of such cat for such additional period of time as he may deem advisable in order to place such cat as a pet and may have a licensed veterinarian spay or neuter such cat. If, within such period, any cat is not claimed by and released to the owner or keeper or purchased as a pet, the officer shall cause such cat to be mercifully killed by a licensed veterinarian or disposed of as the State Veterinarian may direct. No person who so destroys a cat shall be held criminally or civilly liable therefor nor shall any licensed veterinarian who spays or neuters a cat pursuant to this section be held civilly liable, including, but not limited to, liability for reconstructive neutical implantation surgery.

(c) Any cat captured or impounded under the provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall be redeemed by the owner or keeper thereof, or the agent of such owner or keeper, upon proper identification, and presentation to the municipal animal control officer of a license, tag or other means of identification for such cat, and upon the payment by such owner or keeper or his agent of (1) the redemption fee established by the municipality, which shall not exceed fifteen dollars, and (2) the cost of advertising incurred under the provisions of subsection (a) of this section. When the owner or keeper of any such impounded cat fails to redeem such cat within twenty-four hours after receiving notification to do so, or, where the owner was unknown, within twenty-four hours after notification was effected by means of publication in a newspaper, such owner or keeper shall pay, in addition to such redemption fee and the cost of advertising, the amount determined by the municipality to be the full cost of detention and care of such impounded cat. In addition, any owner or keeper of any such impounded cat who fails to redeem such cat within one hundred twenty hours after receiving notification to do so shall have committed an infraction. The legislative body of the municipality shall set any fees imposed by the municipality under this section.

CREDIT(S)

(1996, P.A. 96-243, § 2, eff. Oct. 1, 1996; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 10, eff. July 1, 1998; 2003, P.A. 03-137, § 2.)

§ 22-333. Redemption of impounded dog, cat or other animal

Any dog, cat or other animal captured or impounded under the provisions of this chapter shall be redeemed by the owner or keeper thereof, or the agent of such owner or keeper, upon proper identification, and, if the animal in question is a dog, upon presentation to the municipal animal control officer of a license and tag for such dog, and upon the payment by such owner or keeper or his agent of (1) the redemption fee established by the municipality, which shall not exceed fifteen dollars, and (2) the cost of advertising incurred under the provisions of section 22-332; provided no dog, cat or other animal seized for doing damage under the provisions of section 22-355 shall be released except upon written order of the commissioner, the Chief Animal Control Officer or an animal control officer. When the owner or keeper of any such impounded dog, cat or other animal fails to redeem such dog, cat or other animal within twenty-four hours after receiving notification to do so, or, where the owner was unknown, within twenty-four hours after notification was effected by means of publication in a newspaper, such owner or keeper shall pay, in addition to such redemption fee and the cost of advertising, the amount determined by the municipality to be the full cost of detention and care of such impounded dog, cat or other animal. The owner or keeper of any dog, cat or other animal impounded for the purposes of quarantine, as set forth in sections 22-358 and 22-359, shall pay the amount determined by the municipality to be the full cost of detention and care of such quarantined animal. In addition, any owner or keeper of any such impounded dog, cat or other animal who fails to redeem such dog, cat or other animal within one hundred twenty hours after receiving notification to do so shall have committed an infraction. The legislative body of the municipality shall set any fees imposed by the municipality under this section.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3380; 1951, Supp. § 711b; 1953, Supp. § 1376c; 1955, Supp. § 1818d; 1963, P.A. 613, § 6; 1969, P.A. 36; 1969, P.A. 81, § 4; 1971, P.A. 14; 1975, P.A. 75-401, § 1, eff. July 1, 1975; 1979, P.A. 79-290, § 1; 1982, P.A. 82-323, § 2; 1986, P.A. 86-284; 1991, P.A. 91-59, § 8; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 36, eff. June 28, 1993; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 11, eff. July 1, 1998; 2002, P.A. 02-14, § 1, eff. July 1, 2002; 2003, P.A. 03-123, § 2, eff. June 26, 2003; 2004, P.A. 04-257, § 41, eff. June 14, 2004.)

§ 22-334. Municipal animal control officer's fees

On or before the tenth day of each month, each municipal animal control officer shall present to the chief administrative officer of the town a sworn statement of the services rendered by the municipal animal control officer in the performance of official duties during the previous month. The commissioner shall provide the forms for such statements and a copy of each such statement shall be forwarded to the commissioner by the chief administrative officer promptly upon receipt. Upon presentation of such statement, each municipal animal control officer, other than an officer employed on a salary basis, shall be paid by such city or town from the dog fund account (1) five dollars for each dog returned to its owner or sold as a pet and four dollars for each dog captured, impounded and killed, or otherwise disposed of as provided in this chapter, (2) such expenses as the appointing authority may approve and (3) such other remuneration as the officers having jurisdiction thereof direct. Each municipal animal control officer employed on a salary basis shall be paid, in addition to a regular salary, a bonus of one dollar for each dog returned to its owner or sold as a pet. Each municipal animal control officer shall pay to the town treasurer or other fiscal officer for deposit in the dog fund account all moneys received by the officer in the performance of official duties. Each regional animal control officer shall pay to the commissioner for deposit with the State Treasurer all such moneys received by the officer. Such moneys shall be deposited in the dog fund account and credited to the town from which it was collected for purposes of payment of the amount due under subsection (b) of section 22-331a.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3381; 1951, Supp. § 712b; 1953, Supp. §§ 1377c, 1819d; 1957, P.A. 440, § 1; 1963, P.A. 613, § 7; 1969, P.A. 81, § 4; 1979, P.A. 79-290, § 2, eff. July 1, 1979; 1982, P.A. 82-101, § 1, eff. July 1, 1982; 1987, P.A. 87-231, § 1, eff. July 1, 1987; 1991, P.A. 91- 59, § 9; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 37, eff. June 28, 1993.)

§ 22-335. Removal of municipal animal control officer. Complaint against municipal animal control officer

Any municipal animal control officer may be removed by the authority which appointed him or by the commissioner, and a successor may be appointed by such authority or commissioner. Any owner of a dog or cat aggrieved by the taking of such dog or cat by a municipal animal control officer may make complaint to the appointing authority of such municipal animal control officer or to the commissioner; and if, upon investigation of the complaint, the authority or the commissioner finds that the municipal animal control officer took the dog or cat otherwise than in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, or abused or cruelly treated the dog or cat, the authority or the commissioner may remove the officer and appoint his successor.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3382; 1953, Supp. §§ 1378c, 1820d; 1991, P.A. 91-59, § 10; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 38, eff. June 28, 1993; 1996, P.A. 96-243, § 4.)

§ 22-336. Towns to provide pounds or other suitable facilities. Regulations. Enforcement

Each city or town, other than towns participating in a regional dog pound, shall (1) provide and maintain for use as a dog pound a suitable building, which shall be made comfortable for the detention and care of dogs and kept in a sanitary condition, or (2) provide, through written agreement, for the detention and care of impounded dogs by a licensed veterinarian, or in a licensed veterinary hospital, licensed commercial kennel, a dog pound maintained by another city or town, or other suitable facility approved by the commissioner. Any city or town may provide for the use of such building or facility to shelter other animals which are found injured, mistreated or roaming in a manner which endangers the animal or the public. The commissioner may adopt regulations, in accordance with the provisions of chapter 54, [FN1] concerning the construction and maintenance of dog pounds or other facilities where impounded dogs are kept, and the care, handling and transportation of dogs by municipal animal control officers. The commissioner may inspect any dog pound or other facility where impounded dogs are kept and may issue such orders as he deems necessary to correct any improper conditions found to exist. If such orders are not complied with, the commissioner may request the Attorney General to bring an action for their enforcement, including suit for an injunction in the judicial district in which the dog pound or facility is located.

[FN1] C.G.S.A. § 4-166 et seq.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3383; 1953, Supp. § 1379c; 1955, Supp. § 1821d; 1963, P.A. 613, § 8; 1980, P.A. 80-211, § 1; 1982, P.A. 82-119, § 2; 1991, P.A. 91-59, § 11; 1993, P.A. 93-162; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 39, eff. June 28, 1993.)

§ 22-337. Notice of licensing requirements

The selectmen of each town shall, annually, at least thirty days before June thirtieth, post a notice on the signpost in their town, if any, or at some other exterior place near the office of the town clerk, which shall warn that dogs must be licensed during the month of June.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3400; 1953, Supp. §§ 1396c, 1838d; 1963, P.A. 613, § 10; 1984, P.A. 84-146, § 13.)

§ 22-338. Licensing of dogs. Fees. Penalties. Rabies certificate. Exemptions. Rabies vaccination exemption certificate submittal.

(a) Each owner or keeper of a dog of the age of six months or older, except dogs kept under a kennel license as provided in section 22-342, shall cause such dog to be licensed in the town clerk's office in the town where such dog is kept, on or before June thirtieth, annually, or at such time as such dog becomes six months old, and annually thereafter, on or before June thirtieth. The owner or keeper shall pay to such town clerk for such license the sum of seven dollars for each neutered male or spayed female dog and the sum of twelve dollars for each unneutered male dog and each unspayed female dog, and one additional dollar in each case as the town clerk's fee for issuing a tag and license as provided in section 22-340. Two dollars from each license fee collected for a neutered or spayed dog shall be deposited into the animal population control account, established under section 22-380g. If an owner or keeper of a dog fails to procure a license as required by this section, such owner or keeper shall pay the appropriate license fee specified in this section, the town clerk's fee and a penalty of one dollar for each month or fraction thereof the dog remains unlicensed.

(b) Any owner or keeper applying for a license for a dog under subsection (a) of this section, except for those owners or keepers possessing a rabies vaccination exemption certificate, or a copy thereof, issued pursuant to section 22-339b, shall submit to the town clerk a rabies certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian, or a copy thereof, stating that such dog has been vaccinated against rabies, the date of the vaccination and the duration of the immunity provided by the vaccine. No license shall be issued unless the certificate indicates that the immunity provided by the vaccine is effective at the time of licensing.

(c) Any owner or keeper applying for a license for a dog pursuant to subsection (a) of this section that has been exempted from vaccination against rabies pursuant to section 22-339b shall submit to the town clerk a rabies vaccination exemption certificate issued by the department, or a copy thereof, in lieu of a rabies certificate.

(d) This section shall not apply to any dog which is imported into this state for exhibition purposes and which does not remain in this state for more than thirty days. Any person may import, from another state, any licensed dog with collar, tag and rabies vaccination certificate, and keep the same in this state for not more than thirty days, without complying with the provisions of this section.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3384; 1953, Supp. § 1380c; 1955, Supp. § 1822d; 1957, P.A. 440, § 2; 1963, P.A. 613, § 9; 1965, Feb. Sp.Sess., P.A. 49, § 1, eff. May 7, 1965; 1976, P.A. 76-361, § 1; 1982, P.A. 82-323, § 3; 1985, P.A. 85-167, § 1; 1989, P.A. 89-161, § 1; 1991, P.A. 91-46, § 1, eff. April 12, 1991; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 40, eff. June 28, 1993; 2002, P.A. 02-61, § 1; 2003, P.A. 03-103, § 1; 2006, P.A. 06-105, § 1; 2007, P.A. 07-105, § 1, eff. June 11, 2007.)

§ 22-339. Licensing of dogs which are six months of age or older by new owners. Fees

Any person upon becoming the owner or keeper of any unlicensed dog of the age of six months or older shall cause such dog to be licensed within thirty days thereof until the thirtieth day of the ensuing June in the manner and subject to the terms and conditions provided in section 22-338. If the new owner has written proof of purchase or transfer and the license is obtained within thirty days, he shall not be required to pay any penalties as provided by said section for failure to secure a license for a dog over six months of age. Any person becoming the owner of a licensed dog shall present the license and tag of such dog to the town clerk of the town in which he resides and, for a fee of one dollar, such town clerk shall issue, in lieu thereof, a new license and tag, which shall be recorded in the name of the new owner. Such town clerk shall retain the old license and tag in his possession.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3385; 1953, Supp. §§ 1381c, 1823d; 1957, P.A. 440, § 3; 1963, P.A. 613, § 11; 1976, P.A. 76-361, § 2; 1978, P.A. 78-297, § 2, eff. July 1, 1978; 1982, P.A. 82-323, § 4; 1989, P.A. 89-161, § 2; 1991, P.A. 91-215, § 1; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 41, eff. June 28, 1993.)

§ 22-339a. Town clerks may deputize agents for the issuance of licenses. Licensing of dogs acquired from dog pounds. Fees. Rabies certificate

(a) The town clerk of any town may deputize employees of any dog pound in such town as agents for the issuance of dog licenses and tags, provided the town clerk shall be solely responsible for compliance with the provisions of the statutes relating to the duties of the town clerk in connection with such licenses and tags and the moneys received therefor.

(b) Any person acquiring an unlicensed dog from a dog pound shall be issued a temporary license by the town clerk, or his agent deputized pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, which shall expire thirty days after the issuance thereof. Prior to the expiration of a temporary license, the person holding the license shall apply for a license for the remainder of the license year, pay the appropriate license fee specified in section 22-338, and submit a certificate signed by a veterinarian, or a copy thereof, stating (1) that the dog has been vaccinated against rabies, (2) the date of the vaccination and (3) the duration of the immunity provided by the vaccine. No license shall be issued unless the certificate indicates that the immunity provided by the vaccine is effective at the time of licensing.

CREDIT(S)

(1978, P.A. 78-297, § 1, eff. July 1, 1978; 1982, P.A. 82-323, § 5; 1985, P.A. 85-167, § 2; 1989, P.A. 89-161, § 3; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 42, eff. June 28, 1993.)

§ 22-339b. Rabies vaccination required for dogs and cats. Booster vaccination required. Proof of vaccination

(a) Any owner or keeper of a dog or cat of the age of three months or older shall have such dog or cat vaccinated against rabies. Any animal vaccinated prior to one year of age or receiving a primary rabies vaccine at any age shall be considered protected for only one year and shall be given a booster vaccination one year after the initial vaccination and shall be vaccinated at least every three years thereafter. Those animals revaccinated after one year of age shall be given booster vaccinations at least every three years thereafter. Proof of vaccination shall be a certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian in accordance with subsection (a) of section 22-339c.

(b) The State Veterinarian or the Commissioner of Agriculture, or the commissioner's designee, may grant an exemption from vaccination against rabies for a dog or cat if a licensed veterinarian has examined such animal and determined that a rabies vaccination would endanger the animal's life due to disease or other medical considerations. Such exemption may be granted for an individual animal only after the veterinarian has consulted with the State Veterinarian, the Commissioner of Agriculture, or the commissioner's designee, and completed and submitted to the department an application for exemption from rabies vaccination on a form approved by the Department of Agriculture. After approval of such exemption, the department shall issue a rabies vaccination exemption certificate, copies of which shall be provided to the veterinarian, the owner of the dog or cat exempted from rabies vaccination and the animal control officer of the municipality in which the owner of the dog or cat resides. Certification that a dog or cat is exempt from rabies vaccination shall be valid for one year, after which time the animal shall be vaccinated against rabies or the application for exemption shall be renewed.

(c) Any veterinarian aggrieved by a denial of a request for an exemption from rabies vaccination by the State Veterinarian, the Commissioner of Agriculture or the commissioner's designee may appeal such denial as provided in the Uniform Administrative Procedure Act, sections 4-166 to 4-189, inclusive.

(d) Any violation of this section shall be an infraction.

CREDIT(S)

(1985, P.A. 85-167, § 3, eff. May 14, 1985; 1991, P.A. 91-46, § 2, eff. April 12, 1991; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 43, eff. June 28, 1993; 1996, P.A. 96-243, § 13, eff. June 6, 1996; 2006, P.A. 06-105, § 2.)

§ 22-339c. Certificate of rabies vaccination

(a) A certificate of rabies vaccination shall be (1) a form approved by the National Association of Public Health Veterinarians, (2) any form approved by the State Veterinarian, or (3) any form that has the following information regarding the vaccinated animal: (A) The name and address of its owner; (B) a description of the animal which specifies its species, breed, age, color or markings and sex; (C) the date of the vaccination, the duration of the immunity provided by the vaccination, the producer of the vaccine and the vaccine serial number; (D) the rabies tag number; and (E) the signature and license number of the veterinarian administering the vaccination. Such certificate shall be the official proof of rabies vaccination submitted to a town clerk in accordance with the provisions of section 22-338 or 22- 339a.

(b) The owner or keeper of a dog or cat shall keep a certificate, or copy thereof, stating that such dog or cat has been vaccinated against rabies and shall make such certificate or copy available to any animal control officer, regional animal control officer or municipal animal control officer of any municipality for inspection.

(c) An antirabies clinic, upon request of any municipal animal control officer or animal control officer, shall submit to such officer a copy of any such certificate issued. Such copy shall be used by the officer to search for unlicensed dogs in accordance with the provisions of section 22-349.

CREDIT(S)

(1985, P.A. 85-167, § 4; 1986, P.A. 86-45, § 2, eff. April 28, 1986; 1991, P.A. 91-46, § 3, eff.. April 12, 1991; 1991, P.A. 91-59, § 12; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 44, eff. June 28, 1993; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 12, eff. July 1, 1998; 2006, P.A. 06-105, § 3.)

§ 22-339d. Municipal control of feral cats

(a) A municipality may adopt an ordinance requiring the registration, within one year of the adoption of such ordinance, of keepers of feral cats in residential or commercial areas. Such ordinance shall require that any such keeper shall register with the animal control officer for such municipality who shall provide information to the registrant regarding the proper care and management of feral cats. For purposes of this section, "feral cat" means a free-roaming domestic cat which is not owned and "keeper" means any person or organization, harboring, regularly feeding or having in his or its possession any feral cat. Refusal to permit any animal control officer to impound a feral cat shall be deemed evidence of keeping. Such ordinance shall require that such keepers shall provide for the vaccination of such cats against rabies and the sterilization of such cats. Such keeper shall be considered an eligible owner for purposes of the animal population control program established under sections 22-380e to 22-380m, inclusive, provided such cats are adopted from a municipal pound.

(b) A municipality may adopt an ordinance providing that no person owning or keeping any cat shall permit such animal to (1) substantially damage property other than the property of the owner or keeper or (2) cause an unsanitary, dangerous or unreasonably offensive condition. Violation of such provision shall be an infraction.

CREDIT(S)

(1996, P.A. 96-243, § 1.)

§ 22-340. Town clerk to provide licenses and tags

(a) Each person complying with the provisions of section 22-338, 22-339 or 22-342 shall receive from the town clerk a license on a form prescribed by the commissioner, which license shall contain a description of the dog and the number under which such dog is licensed. The town clerk shall issue to such person a tag or plate of material prescribed by the commissioner, upon which shall be distinctly marked the name of the town in which such dog is licensed, the license number and the year of license. No town clerk shall issue such license or tag to any person for any neutered male or spayed female dog not previously licensed as such unless the person causing the dog to be licensed exhibits to the town clerk a certificate from a licensed veterinarian stating that such veterinarian has neutered or spayed the dog or that, after examining the dog, he finds that the dog has been neutered or spayed.

(b) The town clerk shall provide for the issuance and renewal through the mail of licenses issued under sections 22-338 and 22-339. The town clerk may make applications for such licenses available at such facilities as kennels, pet stores, veterinarian offices, humane society offices and pet grooming establishments.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3386; 1953, Supp. §§ 1382c, 1824d; 1963, P.A. 613, § 12; 1977, P.A. 77-420, § 2, eff. June 10, 1977; 1977, P.A. 77-604, § 19, eff. July 6, 1977; 1989, P.A. 89-161, § 4; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 45, eff. June 28, 1993.)

§ 22-341. Tag or plate to be attached to dog collar or harness. Cost

(a) Each owner or keeper of a licensed dog shall keep around its neck or body a collar or harness of leather or other suitable material, to which shall be securely attached a tag or plate issued to such person by the town clerk. If any such tag or plate is lost, the owner or keeper of such dog shall forthwith secure a substitute tag or plate from the town clerk, at a cost of fifty cents.

(b) The town clerk of each town shall order a sufficient number of such tags or plates from the commissioner, who shall furnish the same at a cost of five cents each, which cost shall be paid by the town on the approval of the town clerk. Any balance of the moneys received by the commissioner after deducting the cost of the tags, the expenses incidental to their distribution to the town clerks and the expenses incidental to the enforcement of the provisions of this chapter, shall be accounted for by the commissioner to the Comptroller. The design and the shape of such tags or plates shall be changed each year, and such tags or plates for each year shall be of uniform design and material throughout the state. Any dog found roaming at large upon any public highway or common or upon the premises of any person other than its owner, without a tag as provided in this section, shall be presumed to be an unlicensed dog.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3387; 1953, Supp. §§ 1383c, 1825d; 1983, P.A. 83-382, § 1, eff. June 21, 1983; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 46, eff. June 28, 1993; 2001, P.A. 01-62, § 2.)

§ 22-342. Kennel licenses. Certain breeders to be licensed. Inspection of kennel facilities. Penalties

(a) Any owner or keeper of a kennel who breeds more than two litters of dogs annually shall apply to the town clerk in the town in which such kennel is located for a kennel license. Any owner or keeper of a kennel who breeds not more than two litters of dogs annually may apply to the town clerk of the town in which such kennel is located for a kennel license. for the purposes of this section, annually shall refer to the kennel license year which begins July first. Such town clerk shall issue to such applicant a kennel license on a form prescribed by the commissioner for a period from the date of such application until the thirtieth day of the ensuing June. The license shall specify the name and number of the kennel, the name of the owner and the name of the keeper and shall be in lieu of any other license required for any dog of either sex which may be kept in such kennel during the period for which the license is issued. Each license may be renewed from year to year by the town clerk upon application of such owner or keeper. Each such owner or keeper shall cause to be kept, upon each dog in such kennel, while it is at large, a collar or harness of leather or other suitable material, to which collar or harness shall be securely attached a tag or plate upon which shall appear the number of the kennel license, the name of the town issuing the license and the year of license. Such plates or tags shall be furnished by the town clerk of the town in which such kennel is licensed, at a cost of ten cents each, in such numbers, not fewer than the number of dogs kept in such kennel, and at such time as the licensee may request. The fee for each kennel license, when no more than ten dogs are kept in the kennel, shall be fifty dollars, and for a license for a kennel containing more than ten dogs, the fee shall be one hundred dollars, except that in the case of a kennel started after the first day of July, the license fee for the remainder of the year shall be a proportional part of the fee charged for one year. If the owner or keeper of any established kennel fails to obtain the kennel license on or before June thirtieth, he shall pay one dollar for each dog kept therein, in addition to the regular kennel fee.

(b) The commissioner, the Chief Animal Control Officer or any state animal control officer may at any time inspect any kennel including all facilities of any kennel in which dogs are bred or housed or cause it to be inspected by a Connecticut licensed veterinarian appointed by the commissioner. If, in the judgment of the commissioner, such kennel is not being maintained in good repair and in a sanitary and humane manner or if the commissioner finds that communicable or infectious disease or other unsatisfactory conditions exist in the kennel, he may issue such orders as he deems necessary for the correction of such conditions and may quarantine the premises and animals. If the owner or keeper of such kennel fails to comply with such orders, the commissioner shall revoke or suspend the kennel license of such owner or keeper.

(c) Any person aggrieved by any order issued under the provisions of this section may appeal to the Superior Court in accordance with the provisions of section 4-183.

(d) Any person maintaining a kennel after such license has been revoked or suspended as herein provided shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than one year or both.

(e) Any owner or keeper of a kennel who breeds more than two litters of dogs annually and (1) fails to apply for a kennel license as required in subsection (a) of this section, or (2) fails to allow an inspection of such facility as required in subsection (b) of this section shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than one year or both.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., §§ 3388, 3389; 1953, Supp. §§ 1384c, 1826d; 1957, P.A. 440, § 4; 1963, P.A. 613, § 13; 1969, P.A. 81, § 4; 1976, P.A. 76-436, § 457, eff. July 1, 1978; 1977, P.A. 77-260; 1977, P.A. 77-420, § 1, eff. June 10, 1977; 1977, P.A. 77-603, § 99, eff. July 1, 1977; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 47, eff. June 28, 1993; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 13, eff. July 1, 1998; 1998, P.A. 98-113, § 1.)

§ 22-343. Temporary placing of dog

The holder of any kennel license may place any dog belonging to such kennel in the possession and keeping of any prospective purchaser for not more than thirty days without such keeper or temporary custodian complying with the provisions of section 22-338, but such dog, during such temporary custody, shall wear around its neck or body a collar or harness of leather or other suitable material, to which shall be attached a tag or plate as specified in section 22-341 or 22-342.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3390; 1953, Supp. §§ 1385c, 1827d; 1963, P.A. 613, § 14.)

§ 22-344. Licensing of commercial kennel, pet shop, training facility or grooming facility. Fees. Inspection. Conformance to zoning regulations

(a) No person shall maintain a commercial kennel until he has obtained from the commissioner a license to maintain such kennel under such regulations as the commissioner provides as to sanitation, disease and humane treatment of dogs or cats and the protection of the public safety. Upon written application and the payment of a fee of one hundred dollars, the commissioner shall issue such license to be effective until the ensuing December thirty-first provided the commissioner finds (1) that such regulations have been complied with and (2) in the case of each initial application for such license, that the zoning enforcement official of the municipality wherein such kennel is to be maintained has certified that the kennel conforms to the municipal zoning regulations. Such license shall be renewed annually, not later than December thirty-first, in accordance with the provisions of this section, and may be transferred by the licensee to another premises upon approval of the commissioner.

(b) No person shall maintain a pet shop until he has obtained from the commissioner a license to maintain such pet shop under such regulations as the commissioner provides as to sanitation, disease and humane treatment of animals and the protection of the public safety. Upon written application and the payment of a fee of two hundred dollars, the commissioner shall issue such license to be effective until the ensuing December thirty-first provided the commissioner finds (1) that such regulations have been complied with and (2) in the case of each initial application for such license, that the zoning enforcement official of the municipality wherein such pet shop is to be maintained has certified that the pet shop conforms to the municipal zoning regulations. Such pet shop license may be transferred by the licensee to another premises upon the approval of the commissioner. The commissioner, after consultation with the Commissioners of Public Health and Environmental Protection, shall establish and maintain, pursuant to regulations adopted in accordance with chapter 54, [FN1] a list of animals which are deemed to be injurious to the health and safety of the public or whose maintenance in captivity is detrimental to the health and safety of the animal. The sale or offer of sale of any animal which is on said list is prohibited and any person who violates this provision shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars.

(c) No person shall engage in the business of grooming or maintaining a grooming facility until such person has obtained from the commissioner a license to maintain such facility under such regulations as the commissioner provides as to sanitation, disease and humane treatment of such animals and the protection of the public safety. Upon written application and the payment of a fee of one hundred dollars, the commissioner shall issue such license to be effective until the ensuing December thirty-first provided the commissioner finds (1) that such regulations have been complied with, and (2) in the case of each initial application for such license, that the zoning enforcement official of the municipality wherein such grooming is to be maintained has certified that the facility conforms to the municipal zoning regulations. Such license shall be renewed annually, not later than December thirty-first, in accordance with the provisions of this section, and may be transferred by the licensee to other premises upon approval of the commissioner.

(d) No person shall maintain a training facility until such person has obtained from the commissioner a license to maintain such facility under such regulations as the commissioner provides as to sanitation, disease and humane treatment of such animals and the protection of public safety. Upon written application and the payment of a fee of one hundred dollars, the commissioner shall issue such license to be effective until the ensuing December thirty- first provided the commissioner finds (1) that such regulations have been complied with and (2) in the case of each initial application for such license, that the zoning enforcement official of the municipality wherein such training facility is to be maintained has certified that the facility conforms to the municipal zoning regulations. Such license shall be renewed annually upon the terms required for the original license and may be transferred by the licensee to another premises upon approval of the commissioner.

(e) The commissioner may, at any time, inspect or cause to be inspected by his agents any such commercial kennel, pet shop, grooming facility or training facility, and if, in his judgment such kennel, pet shop, grooming facility or training facility is not being maintained in a sanitary and humane manner or in a manner that protects the public safety, or if he finds that contagious, infectious or communicable disease or other unsatisfactory conditions exist, he may issue such orders as he deems necessary for the correction of such conditions and may quarantine the premises and animals. If the owner or keeper of such kennel, pet shop, grooming facility or training facility fails to comply with the regulations or orders of the commissioner, or fails to comply with any provision of the statutes or regulations relating to dogs or other animals, the commissioner may revoke or suspend such license. Any person aggrieved by any order issued under the provisions of this section may appeal therefrom in accordance with the provisions of section 4-183. Any person maintaining any commercial kennel, pet shop, grooming facility or training facility without having obtained a license for the same or after any such license has been revoked or suspended as provided herein shall be fined not more than two hundred dollars. The provisions of this section shall not apply to veterinary hospitals, except those boarding or grooming dogs for nonmedical purposes, and other establishments where all the dogs or animals were born and raised on the premises where they are kept for sale.

(f) The provisions of subsections (a) to (d), inclusive, of this section requiring certification by the zoning enforcement official that every commercial kennel, pet shop, grooming facility and training facility conforms to the zoning regulations of the municipality wherein such kennel, pet shop, grooming facility or training facility is maintained shall not apply to any person who is licensed under said subsections and maintained any such kennel, pet shop or grooming facility prior to October 1, 1977, provided such person does not relocate such kennel, pet shop, grooming facility or training facility in a zone in which such kennel, pet shop, grooming facility or training facility is not a permitted use. In addition, the provisions of said subsections requiring certification by the zoning enforcement official that every commercial kennel, pet shop, grooming facility and training facility conforms to the zoning regulations of the municipality wherein such kennel, pet shop, grooming facility or training facility is maintained shall not apply when a zone in which such kennel, pet shop, grooming facility or training facility is maintained is changed to a use which does not permit such kennel, pet shop, grooming facility or training facility in such zone.

[FN1] C.G.S.A. § 4-166 et seq.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3327; 1953, Supp. §§ 1386c, 1828d; 1959, P.A. 447, § 1; 1963, P.A. 613, § 15; 1965, Feb.Sp.Sess., P.A. 22, § 1, eff. May 5, 1965; 1969, P.A. 81, § 4; 1969, P.A. 423, § 2; 1971, P.A. 70; 1972, P.A. 180, § 2; 1974, P.A. 74-89; 1976, P.A. 76-344, § 458, eff. July 1, 1978; 1977, P.A. 77-314, § 2; 1977, P.A. 77-505; 1977, P.A. 77-603, § 100, eff. July 1, 1977; 1977, P.A. 77-614, § 323, eff. Jan. 1, 1979; 1982, P.A. 82-91, §§ 15, 16, eff. July 1, 1982; 1983, P.A. 83-382, § 2, eff. June 21, 1983; 1988, P.A. 88-364, § 30, eff. June 8, 1988; 1992, May Sp.Sess., P.A. 92-6, § 49, eff. July 1, 1992; 1993, P.A. 93-381, § 9, eff. July 1, 1993; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 48, eff. June 28, 1993; 1995, P.A. 95-257, §§ 12, 21, eff. July 1, 1995; 2001, P.A. 01- 62, § 3.)

§ 22-344a. Euthanasia of animals by pet shops

(a) Euthanasia of any warm-blooded animal which was offered for sale by a pet shop and not sold or transferred to another owner shall be by lethal injection of sodium pentobarbitol administered by a veterinarian licensed in this state or a person under his supervision.

(b) The commissioner shall revoke the license issued under section 22-344 of any pet shop that violates subsection (a) of this section.

CREDIT(S)

(1987, P.A. 87-143, §§ 1, 2; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 49, eff. June 28, 1993.)

§ 22-344b. Pet shop required to have dogs and cats examined by veterinarian. Replacement or refund. Penalty

(a) A pet shop licensee shall, prior to offering a dog or cat for sale and thereafter at intervals of fifteen days until such dog or cat is sold, provide for examination of such dog or cat by a veterinarian licensed under chapter 384. [FN1] The licensee shall maintain a record of the veterinary services rendered for each dog or cat offered for sale.

(b) If, within fifteen days of sale, any such dog or cat becomes ill or dies of any illness which existed in such dog or cat at the time of the sale, such licensee shall, at the option of the consumer, replace the dog or cat or refund in full the purchase price of such dog or cat: (1) In the case of illness, upon return of the dog or cat to the pet shop and the receipt of a certificate from a veterinarian licensed under chapter 384, [FN1] stating that the dog or cat is ill from a condition which existed at the time of sale, and (2) in the case of death, the receipt of a certificate from a veterinarian licensed under said chapter stating that the dog or cat died from an illness which existed at the time of sale. Any costs for services and medications provided by a licensed veterinarian incurred by the consumer for such illness shall be reimbursed to the consumer by such licensee in an amount not to exceed two hundred dollars. The presentation of such certificate shall be sufficient proof to claim reimbursement or replacement and the return of such deceased dog or cat to the pet shop shall not be required. No such refund or replacement shall be made if such illness or death resulted from maltreatment or neglect by a person other than the licensee, his agent or employee.

(c) A licensee who violates any provision of this section shall forfeit to the state a sum not to exceed five hundred dollars for each animal which is the subject of the violation. The Attorney General, upon complaint of the commissioner, may institute a civil action in the superior court for the judicial district of Hartford to recover the forfeiture specified in this section.

[FN1] C.G.S.A. § 20-196 et seq.

CREDIT(S)

(1988, P.A. 88-325, § 1; 1988, P.A. 88-230, § 1; 1990, P.A. 90-98, § 1; 1993, P.A. 93-142, § 4, eff. June 14, 1993; 1995, P.A. 95-220, § 4, eff. July 1, 1995; 1998, P.A. 98-113, § 2.)

§ 22-344c. Licensure of breeding facilities by towns

(a) If a town requires the licensure of persons keeping ten or more unneutered or unspayed dogs capable of breeding, such persons shall apply to the clerk of the town in which such dogs are located for a license. Such town clerk, if the zoning enforcement official has certified that the location where such dogs shall be kept conforms to the zoning regulations of the municipality, shall issue to such applicant a license, for a reasonable fee to be determined by the town, on a form prescribed by the town for a period, from the date of such application until the thirtieth day of the ensuing June which license shall specify the name and number of the dogs, the name of the owner and, if applicable, the name of a keeper. Each such license may be renewed from year to year by the town clerk upon application of such owner or keeper.

(b) The Commissioner of Agriculture, the Chief Animal Control Officer or any animal control officer may at any time inspect or cause to be inspected any location, required by a town to be licensed, keeping ten or more unneutered or unspayed dogs capable of breeding, by a registered veterinarian appointed by the commissioner and if, in the judgment of the commissioner, such location is not being maintained in a sanitary and humane manner or if he finds that communicable or infectious disease or other unsatisfactory conditions exist, he may issue such orders as he deems necessary for the correction of such conditions and may quarantine the premises and animals. If the owner or keeper of such location fails to comply with such orders, the commissioner may recommend the revocation or suspension of such license to the town which issued such license.

(c) Any person aggrieved by any order issued under the provisions of this section may appeal to the Superior Court in accordance with the provisions of section 4-183.

(d) Any person keeping ten or more unneutered or unspayed dogs capable of breeding, in a location required to be licensed, after such license has been revoked or suspended as herein provided shall be fined not less than fifty dollars or more than one hundred dollars.

CREDIT(S)

(1991, P.A. 91-379; 1998, P.A. 98-12, § 14, eff. July 1, 1998; 2003, June 30 Sp.Sess., P.A. 03-6, § 146, eff. July 1, 2004; 2004, P.A. 04-189, § 1, eff. June 1, 2004; 2007, P.A. 07-217, § 99, eff. July 12, 2007.)

§ 22-344d. Signs required in pet shops selling dogs. Penalty

(a) A sign measuring not less than three inches in height and not less than five inches in width shall be posted on the cage of each dog offered for sale in a pet shop. The sign shall contain information printed in black lettering on a white background listing the breed of such dog, the locality and state in which such dog was born, and any individual identification number of such dog as listed on the official certificate of veterinary inspection from the state of origin.

(b) A sign shall be posted stating the following "THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE ON ALL OUR PUPPIES: DATE OF BIRTH, THE STATE OF BIRTH, BREED, SEX AND COLOR, THE DATE THE PET SHOP RECEIVED THE PUPPY, THE NAMES AND REGISTRATION NUMBERS OF THE PARENTS (FOR AKC REGISTERABLE PUPPIES), RECORD OF INOCULATIONS AND WORMING TREATMENTS AND ANY RECORD OF ANY VETERINARY TREATMENT OR MEDICATIONS RECEIVED TO DATE." Such sign shall include a telephone number at the Department of Agriculture through which information may be obtained regarding complaints about diseased or disabled animals offered for sale. Such sign shall be posted in a place readily visible to the consumer where dogs are offered for sale and printed in black lettering not less than thirty-eight point size upon a white background.

(c) A licensee who violates any provision of this section shall be liable for a civil penalty not to exceed five hundred dollars. The Attorney General, upon complaint of the Commissioner of Agriculture, may institute a civil action in the superior court for the judicial district of Hartford to recover the penalty specified in this section.

CREDIT(S)

(1998, P.A. 98-113, § 3; 2003, June 30 Sp.Sess., P.A. 03-6, § 146, eff. July 1, 2004; 2004, P.A. 04-189, § 1, eff. June 1, 2004.)

§ 22-344e. License required for procurement of dog or cat for resale. Penalty

No person shall procure any dog or cat for the purpose of resale unless such person holds a pet shop license under section 22-344. Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than one year, or both.

CREDIT(S)

(1998, P.A. 98-113, § 4.)

§ 22-345. License and tag for guide dogs for blind, deaf or mobility impaired persons

Any blind, deaf or mobility impaired person who is the owner or keeper of a dog which has been trained and educated to guide and assist such person in traveling upon the public streets or highways or otherwise shall receive a license and tag for such dog from the town clerk of the town where such dog is owned or kept. Such license and tag shall be issued in accordance with the provisions of section 22-340, and no fee shall be required of the owner or keeper of any such dog. When any such dog has not been previously licensed by the town clerk to whom application is being made, such town clerk shall not license such dog or issue to the owner a license and tag unless written evidence is exhibited to such clerk that the dog is trained and educated and intended in fact to perform such guide service for such applicant. Any person who has a dog placed with such person temporarily, including for breeding purposes, by a nonprofit organization established for the purpose of training or educating guide dogs to so assist blind, deaf or mobility impaired persons shall receive a license and tag for such dog from the town clerk of the town where such dog is kept. Such license and tag shall be issued in accordance with the provisions of section 22-340, and no fee shall be required for such license and tag, provided such person presents written evidence that such dog was placed with such person by such organization. As used in this section and section 46a-44, "deaf person" means a person who cannot readily understand spoken language through hearing alone and who may also have a speech defect which renders such person's speech unintelligible to most people with normal hearing.

CREDIT(S)

(1949 Rev., § 3391; 1953 Supp. §§ 1387c, 1829d; 1963, P.A. 613, § 16; 1976, P.A. 76-49, § 1; 1985, P.A. 85-289, § 5; 1989, P.A. 89-161, § 5; 1993, P.A. 93-435, § 50, eff. June 28, 1993; 2001, P.A. 01-62, § 6.)

General Provisions

Cruelty and Neglect

Impoundment Provisions

Licensing

Rabies and Other Vaccination Requirements

Kennel & Pet Shop Provisions

Assistance Animals

License Fees

Dogs as Property

Damage Done by Dogs to People or Other Animals

Rabies Control

Nuisance Provisions

Cropping Provision

General Enforcement Provisions

Title 26. Fisheries and Game. Chapter 490. Fisheries and Game. Part VII. Fish and Game Refuges