Results
| Title |
Author |
Citation | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brief Summary of Local and State Dog Laws | Rebecca F. Wisch | Animal Legal & Historical Center |
This summary examines the nature and authority of state and local dog laws. It also describes the general subjects included in dog laws, such as loose dogs and impoundment procedures. The concept of preemption of local laws is also defined. |
| Detailed Discussion of State Cat Laws | Rebecca F. Wisch | Animal Legal & Historical Center |
This discussion analyzes the relevant state laws that affect cats. It also raises and attempts to answer several questions directed to cat owners, including licensing of cats, the feral cat problem, and state vaccination requirements. |
| Brief Summary of Landlord Liability for Injury by Tenant's Animals | Rebecca F. Wisch | Animal Legal & Historical Center |
This brief overview discusses when and how a landlord may be liable for injuries caused by a tenant's animal. In short, it outlines what constitutes negligence for a landlord in such circumstances for most jurisdictions. |
| 2008 - 2009 Significant Animal Law Cases | Rebecca F. Wisch | Animal Legal & Historical Center |
This table provides a summary of the significant animal law cases from 2008 and early 2009. The federal cases are listed first followed by the state cases, which are listed alphabetically by case name. |
| FAQ: Dogs in Restaurants | Rebecca F. Wisch | Animal Legal & Historical Center | This FAQ explores what states have laws concerning dogs in outdoor dining area of restaurants. As of 2023, 23 states have laws or administrative regulations that allow patrons to bring pet dogs to outdoor dining spaces in restaurants. Some laws require that the local unit of government first enact an ordinance allowing the activity. |
| Summary of 2008 Animal-Related Ballot Measures | Rebecca F. Wisch | Animal Legal & Historical Center |
This overview provides a summary of the animal-related ballots measures presented to voters in 2008. Links to the text of the ballot measures are provided. |
| Domestic Violence and Pets: List of States that Include Pets in Protection Orders | Rebecca F. Wisch | Animal Legal & Historical Center | This document lists the states that include pets in domestic violence protection orders with links to the actual statutes. As of 2026, 42 states as well as D.C. and Puerto Rico have enacted such laws. Also, see the Map of Pets in Domestic Violence Orders linked below. |
| Detailed Discussion of West Virginia Great Ape Laws | Rebecca F. Wisch | Animal Legal & Historical Center | The following article discusses West Virginia Great Ape law. West Virginia has no law that restricts or otherwise mentions great apes. In fact, West Virginia does not even have a state endangered species provision providing additional state protection for endangered or threatened species. The only law to address great apes because it covers all animals is the state’s anti-cruelty provision. The law does except the humane use of animals or activities regulated under the Animal Welfare Act, and the law’s accompanying regulations. This would include scientific research and animal exhibitors licensed under the Animal Welfare Act. |
| Brief Summary of Dog Bite Laws | Rebecca F. Wisch | Animal Legal & Historical Center |
This brief overview examines the basic provisions of most state dog bite laws, including the traditional elements of negligence and principles of strict liability. |
| Overview of 2008 State Animal Law Changes | Rebecca F. Wisch | Animal Legal & Historical Center |
This overview examines the changes to state animal laws in 2008 as well as the animal-related ballot proposals that appeared in the November election. |