Topics of dog laws on this page:
Fish and Game Provisions Relating to Dogs
Estrays (livestock)/Animals Doing Damage
Pet and Companion Animal Welfare Act (licensing, bites, owner requirements, etc.)
Police Regulations for Dogs (public nuisance, dangerous dogs, when dogs can be killed, etc.)
Town Powers to Regulate Animals
Commercial Breeders Act (2014)
Agriculture (Ch. 17-42). Chapter 35. Animal Health.
35.67 . Rabies investigation
35.68 . Rabies proclamation
35.69 . Unmuzzled dogs not permitted at large
35.71 . Unclaimed and unredeemed animals impounded; scientific use or other disposition (Repealed)
Fish and Game Provisions Relating to Dogs
Game and Fish. Chapter 97A. Game and Fish. Penalties.
97A.321 . Dogs pursuing or killing big game
Game and Fish. Chapter 97B. Hunting. Hunting Restrictions and Requirements.
97B.001 . Trespass
97B.005 . Training dogs
97B.011 . Dogs pursuing big game
Hunting. Big Game.
97B.205 . Use of dogs and horses to take big game prohibited
97B.207. Using dogs to locate wounded deer or bear
Hunting. Small Game.
97B.601 . Small game licenses
97B.621 . Raccoons
Postsecondary Education (Ch. 135A-137). Chapter 135A. Public Postsecondary Education. Miscellaneous
135A.191. Research dogs and cats
Trade Regulations, Consumer Protection. Chapter 325F. Consumer Protection; Products and Sales. Regulating Sale of Dogs and Cats.
325F.79 . Definitions
325F.791 . Sales of dogs and cats
325F.792 . Additional penalties
Police Regulations. Chapter 343. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
343.40. Dog houses
Estrays (livestock)/Animals Doing Damage
Police Regulations. Chapter 346. Stray Animals; Companion Animals. Estrays.
346.01 . Who may take up
346.02 . Finder to give notice; penalty - 346.02. Repealed by Laws 2023, c. 52, art. 19, § 42, eff. July 1, 2023
346.03 . Appraisement
346.04 . Charges for keeping
346.05 . Sale of estray
346.06 . Money, how disposed of
346.07 . Removal of estray; neglect to give notice
346.08 . Distraint of animals doing damage
346.09 . Animals doing damage
346.10 . Appraisement; procedure
346.11 . Tender by owner; effect
346.12 . Impoundments
346.13 . Poundmaster; custody; sale; time; notice
346.14 . Sale of animal not impounded
346.15 . Redemption
346.155 . Possessing regulated animals
346.16 . Running at large; defined; prohibited; treble damages
346.17 . Proceeds of sale
346.18 . Taking distrained beasts a misdemeanor
346.19. Repealed by Laws 2001, c. 21, § 1
346.20 to 346.34. Renumbered in chapter 343 in St.1982
346.35 . Citation
Pet and Companion Animal Welfare Act
346.36 . Definitions
346.37 . General provisions
346.38 . Equines
346.39 . Dogs and cats
346.40 . Pet birds
346.41 . Rodents
346.42 . Other animals
346.43 . Farm animals excluded
346.44 . Penalties
346.47. Seized animals
346.50 . Dogs; identification
346.51 . Bites
346.52 . Local programs
346.53 . Penalties
346.54 . Notification of owners
346.55 . Civil liability
346.56 . Unauthorized release of animals
346.57 . Dogs and cats in motor vehicles
346.58 . Dogs and cats; best management standards for care by dealers, commercial breeders, and brokers
Police Regulations. Chapter 347. Dogs and Cats
347.01 . Owner's liability; penalty
347.02 . Keeping after notice; penalty
347.03 . Dogs may be killed
347.04 . Public nuisance
347.05 . Owner not known
347.06 . Hearing; judgment; execution
347.07 . Costs
347.08 . County board may license
347.09 . Licenses
347.10 . Owners of dogs and kennels; licenses
347.11 . Dog collars to be tagged
347.12 . Fees paid to county treasurer monthly
347.13 . Fees, dog license fund; disposal, accounting
347.14 . Unlicensed dogs
347.15 . Persons damaged, claims filed
347.16 . Claims, hearings, notice
347.17 . Any person may kill dogs in certain cases
347.18 . Tags; restrictions, prohibitions
347.19 . Failure to obtain license
347.20 . Exemptions
347.21 . Interpretation
347.22 . Damages, owner liable
347.23. Renumbered 343.40 in St.1982
347.31 . Definitions
347.32 . License for kennel or dealer
347.33 . Licensing procedures; inspections; administration
347.34 . Licenses required
347.35 . Board of Animal Health rules
347.36 . Advertising
347.37 . Public access; notice; inspection; enforcement
347.38 . Revocation of license
347.39 . Penalties
347.40 . Exceptions
347.50 . Definitions
347.51 . Dangerous dogs; registration
347.515 . Microchip identification
347.52 . Dangerous dogs; requirements
347.53 . Potentially dangerous and dangerous dogs
347.54 . Confiscation
347.541 . Disposition of seized animals
347.542 . Restrictions
347.55 . Penalty
347.56 . Destruction of dog in certain circumstances
347.565. Applicability
Commercial Breeders Act (2014)
347.57. Definitions
347.58. Licensing and inspections
347.59. Standards of care
347.60. Investigations
347.61. Civil enforcement
347.615. Biosecurity; entry into facilities
347.62. Penalties
347.63. Dog and cat breeders licensing account; appropriation
347.64. Applicability
347.65. Recognition; commercial breeder excellence
Chapter 365. Town General Law. Town Meeting Powers .
365.10 . Annual town meeting; powers of electors
Chapter 366. Town Board; Board of Audit. Town Board.
366.01 . Town board powers listed; formal name
Crimes; Expungement; Victims (Ch. 609-624). Chapter 609. Criminal Code. Crimes Against the Person
609.226. Harm caused by dog
Links on other pages:
Assistance animal/service animal laws
157.175. Dogs; outdoor food and beverage service establishments
Game and Fish. Chapter 97A. Game and Fish. Penalties.
97A.321. Dogs pursuing or killing big game
Laws 1986, c. 386, art. 1, § 49. Amended by Laws 2006, c. 281, art. 2, § 27; Laws 2009, c. 176, art. 1, § 21, eff. July 1, 2009; Laws 2011, 1st Sp., c. 2, art. 5, § 24, eff. July 1, 2011; Laws 2019, 1st Sp., c. 4, art. 3, § 49, eff. July 1, 2019.
Game and Fish. Chapter 97B. Hunting. Hunting Restrictions and Requirements.
Subdivision 1. Agricultural land definition. For purposes of this section, “agricultural land” means land:
(1) that is plowed or tilled;
(2) that has standing crops or crop residues;
(3) within a maintained fence for enclosing domestic livestock;
(4) that is planted native or introduced grassland or hay land; or
(5) that is planted to short rotation woody crops as defined in section 41B.048, subdivision 4.
Subd. 1a. Outdoor recreation definition. “Outdoor recreation” means any voluntary activity, including hunting, fishing, trapping, boating, hiking, camping, and engaging in winter sports, which is conducted primarily for the purposes of pleasure, rest, or relaxation and is dependent upon or derives its principal benefit from natural surroundings.
Subd. 2. Permission required to enter agricultural land for outdoor recreation purposes. Except as provided in subdivisions 5 and 6, a person may not enter agricultural land for outdoor recreation purposes, without first obtaining permission of the owner, occupant, or lessee.
Subd. 3. Remaining on land prohibited after notice. Except as provided in subdivision 6, a person may not remain on or return within one year to any land for outdoor recreation purposes after being personally notified not to do so by the owner, occupant, or lessee.
Subd. 4. Entering posted land prohibited; signs. (a) Except as provided in subdivision 6, a person may not:
(1) enter, for outdoor recreation purposes, any land that is posted under this subdivision without first obtaining permission of the owner, occupant, or lessee; or
(2) knowingly enter, for outdoor recreation purposes, any land that is posted under this subdivision without first obtaining permission of the owner, occupant, or lessee. A person who violates this clause is subject to the penalty provided in section 97A.315, subdivision 1, paragraph (b).
(b) The owner, occupant, or lessee of private land, or an authorized manager of public land may prohibit outdoor recreation on the land by posting signs once each year that:
(1) state “no trespassing” or similar terms;
(2) display letters at least two inches high;
(3) either:
(i) are signed by the owner, occupant, lessee, or authorized manager; or
(ii) include the legible name and telephone number of the owner, occupant, lessee, or authorized manager; and
(4) either:
(i) are at intervals of 1,000 feet or less along the boundary of the area, or in a wooded area where boundary lines are not clear, at intervals of 500 feet or less; or
(ii) mark the primary corners of each parcel of land and access roads and trails at the point of entrance to each parcel of land except that corners only accessible through agricultural land need not be posted.
(c) A person may not erect a sign that prohibits outdoor recreation or trespassing where the person does not have a property right, title, or interest to use the land.
Subd. 5. Retrieving wounded game. Except as provided in subdivision 3, a person on foot may, without permission of the owner, occupant, or lessee, enter land that is not posted under subdivision 4, to retrieve a wounded animal that was lawfully shot. The hunter must leave the land immediately after retrieving the wounded game.
Subd. 6. Retrieving hunting dogs. A person on foot may, without permission of the owner, occupant, or lessee, enter private land without a firearm to retrieve a hunting dog. After retrieving the dog, the person must immediately leave the premises.
Subd. 7. Use of firearms and taking in certain areas. (a) Unless otherwise provided by law, a person may not discharge a firearm within 500 feet of a building occupied by a human or livestock without the written permission of the owner, occupant, or lessee:
(1) on another person's private land, if the land is not a licensed shooting preserve; or
(2) on a public road right-of-way.
(b) No person may discharge a firearm within 500 feet of a stockade or corral confining livestock for the purpose of normal livestock holding or sorting operations without the permission of the owner, occupant, or lessee. This paragraph does not apply to persons hunting during an established hunting season on state-owned or local government-owned land that is not a road right-of-way. For the purposes of this paragraph, a “stockade or corral” means a fenced enclosure for confining livestock that does not enclose an area greater than one acre.
(c) A person may not take a wild animal on any land where the person is prohibited from entering by this section.
Subd. 8. Destruction of property; gate closing. A person may not:
(1) wound or kill another person's domestic animal;
(2) destroy, cut, or tear down another person's fence, building, grain, crops, live tree, or sign erected under subdivision 4; or
(3) pass through another person's closed gate without returning the gate to its original position.
Credits
Laws 1986, c. 386, art. 2, § 1. Amended by Laws 1987, c. 149, art. 1, §§ 40 to 42; Laws 1996, c. 301, §§ 1 to 7; Laws 2001, 1st Sp., c. 2, § 117; Laws 2012, c. 277, art. 1, § 49, eff. July 1, 2012; Laws 2014, c. 290, §§ 35 to 37, eff. July 1, 2014.
Game and Fish. Chapter 97B. Hunting. Hunting Restrictions and Requirements.
Subdivision 1. Field training. A person may not train hunting dogs afield on public lands administered by the commissioner from April 16 to July 14 except as specifically authorized by permit or rule.
Subd. 2. Restriction on ammunition while training. A person training a dog afield and carrying a firearm may only have blank cartridges and shells in personal possession when the season is not open for any game bird, except as provided in subdivision 3.
Subd. 3. Permits for organizations and individuals to use game birds and firearms.
(a) The commissioner may issue special permits, without a fee, to use firearms and live ammunition on domesticated birds or banded game birds from game farms.
(b) Permits for holding field trials may be issued to organizations. The permit shall specify the dates and locations of the field trial. The commissioner may limit the number of dates approved for any organization.
(c) Permits for training hunting dogs may be issued to an individual.
(d) Domesticated birds, other than pigeons, and game farm birds used for trials or training under this section must be clearly marked with dye or a streamer attached to a leg in a manner that makes them visually identifiable prior to being taken.
Subd. 4. Repealed by Laws 2005, c. 146, § 52, par. (a).
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1986, c. 386, art. 2, § 2. Amended by Laws 1993, c. 269, §§ 9, 10; Laws 2005, c. 146, §§ 21, 22; Laws 2005, 1st Sp., c. 1, art. 2, § 105.
97B.011. Dogs pursuing big game
(a) A person who observes a dog wounding, killing, or pursuing in a manner that endangers big game may kill the dog:
(1) at any time, if the person is a peace officer or conservation officer; or
(2) between January 1 and July 14, if the person is not a peace officer or conservation officer and the discharge of firearms is allowed.
The officer or person is not liable for damages for killing the dog.
(b) Paragraph (a) does not apply to a dog used in compliance with section 97B.207.
Credits
Laws 1986, c. 386, art. 2, § 3. Amended by Laws 1994, c. 575, § 1; Laws 2019, 1st Sp., c. 4, art. 3, § 54, eff. July 1, 2019.
Game and Fish. Chapter 97B. Hunting. Big Game.
97B.205. Use of dogs and horses to take big game prohibited
A person may not use a dog or horse to take big game, except as provided under section 97B.207.
Credits
Laws 1986, c. 386, art. 2, § 24. Amended by Laws 2019, 1st Sp., c. 4, art. 3, § 61, eff. July 1, 2019.
97B.207. Using dogs to locate wounded deer or bear
Subdivision 1. Using dogs allowed. A person may use a dog to locate and retrieve a wounded deer or bear only as provided in this section.
Subd. 2. Requirements for hunters and handlers. (a) A person attempting to locate and retrieve a wounded deer or bear using a dog must have a valid license to take the deer or bear and have the license in possession. If the person is a dog handler that does not have a valid hunting license, the person must be accompanied by a licensed hunter with the license in possession.
(b) The licensed hunter, and any accompanying dog handler, must be on foot and must wear blaze orange or blaze pink as provided in section 97B.071, paragraph (a).
(c) Any light used must be a handheld artificial light, as defined under section 97B.081, subdivision 3, paragraph (f).
Subd. 3. Requirements for dogs. (a) A dog used to locate a wounded deer or bear must be accompanied by a licensed hunter and any dog handler until the wounded deer or bear is located. The dog must be leashed and the licensed hunter or dog handler must be in physical control of the leash at all times. The leash must not exceed 30 feet in length.
(b) The dog owner's information, including the owner's name and telephone number, must be on the dog while the dog is used to locate a wounded deer or bear under this section.
(c) The licensed hunter and any accompanying dog handler are jointly and severally responsible for a dog under this section. A violation of this subdivision is a misdemeanor under section 97A.301, subdivision 1, and section 97A.421 applies.
Subd. 4. Additional requirements. (a) The trespass provisions in section 97B.001 apply to activities under this section, including all requirements to gain permission to enter private or public property.
(b) Activities under this section may occur during legal shooting hours or outside legal shooting hours of the open season for the location and species. Any activity occurring under this section outside the open season for the location and species must be reported to the local conservation officer before locating or retrieving the wounded deer or bear.
Credits
Laws 2019, 1st Sp., c. 4, art. 3, § 62, eff. July 1, 2019.
Game and Fish. Chapter 97B. Hunting. Small Game.
Subdivision 1. Requirement. A person may not take small game without a small game license except as provided in subdivision 4.
Subd. 2. Trapping small game. A person may not take small game with traps without a trapping license and a small game license except as provided in subdivision 4.
Subd. 3. Nonresidents: raccoon or bobcat. A nonresident may not take raccoon or bobcat by firearms without a separate license to take that animal in addition to a small game license.
Subd. 3a. Nonresidents; trapping small game. A nonresident may take small game, except wolves, by trapping only on land owned by the nonresident, if the nonresident possesses a trapping license for fur-bearing animals other than wolves and a small game license.
Subd. 4. Exception to license requirements. (a) A resident under age 16 may take small game, other than wolves, without a small game license, and a resident under age 13 may trap small game and fur-bearing animals, other than wolves, without a trapping license, as provided in section 97A.451, subdivision 3.
(b) A person may take small game, other than wolves, without a small game license on land occupied by the person as a principal residence.
(c) An owner or occupant may take certain small game causing damage without a small game or trapping license as provided in section 97B.655.
(d) A person may use dogs to pursue and tree raccoons under section 97B.621, subdivision 2, during the closed season without a license.
(e) A person may take a wolf, turkey, or prairie chicken without a small game license.
Credits
Laws 1986, c. 386, art. 2, § 42. Amended by Laws 1987, c. 149, art. 1, § 47; Laws 1991, c. 254, art. 2, § 34; Laws 2002, c. 351, § 18; Laws 2004, c. 215, §§ 24, 25; Laws 2005, 1st Sp., c. 1, art. 2, § 109; Laws 2007, c. 57, art. 1, § 98, eff. July 1, 2007; Laws 2012, c. 277, art. 1, §§ 60, 61, eff. July 1, 2012.
Game and Fish. Chapter 97B. Hunting. Small Game.
Subdivision 1. Repealed by Laws 2014, c. 290, § 70, eff. July 1, 2014.
Subd. 2. Treeing raccoons. Notwithstanding section 97B.005, subdivision 1, a person may use dogs to pursue and tree raccoons without killing or capturing the raccoons during the closed season and a license is not required.
Subd. 3. Nighttime hunting restrictions. To take raccoons between one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour before sunrise, a person:
(1) must be on foot;
(2) may use an artificial light only if hunting with dogs;
(3) may use a handgun or rifle capable of firing only rimfire cartridges of .17 or .22 caliber, including .22 magnum; and
(4) may not use shotgun shells with larger diameter of shot than No. 4 shot.
Subd. 4. Repealed by Laws 2014, c. 290, § 70, eff. July 1, 2014.
Credits
Laws 1986, c. 386, art. 2, § 46. Amended by Laws 1987, c. 81, § 1, eff. May 12, 1987; Laws 1993, c. 51, § 1; Laws 1993, c. 269, § 19; Laws 2005, c. 146, § 33; Laws 2008, c. 368, art. 2, § 56, eff. July 1, 2008; Laws 2019, c. 50, art. 1, § 22, eff. Aug. 1, 2019.
Postsecondary Education (Ch. 135A-137). Chapter 135A. Public Postsecondary Education. Miscellaneous
135A.191. Research dogs and cats
(a) A higher education research facility that receives public money or a facility that provides research in collaboration with a higher education facility that confines dogs or cats for science, education, or research purposes and plans on euthanizing a dog or cat for other than science, education, or research purposes must first offer the dog or cat to an animal rescue organization. A facility that is rquired to offer dogs or cats to an animal rescue organization under this section may enter into an agreement with the animal rescue organization to protect the facility. A facility that provides a dog or cat to a rescue organization under this section is immune from any civil liability that otherwise might result from its actions, provided that the facility is acting in good faith.
(b) For the purposes of this section, “animal rescue organization” means any nonprofit organization incorporated for the purpose of rescuing animals in need and finding permanent, adoptive homes for the animals.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art. 13, § 47. Amended by Laws 2015, c. 69, art. 3, § 19.
Trade Regulations, Consumer Protection. Chapter 325F. Consumer Protection; Products and Sales. Regulating Sale of Dogs and Cats.
For purposes of sections 325F.79 to 325F.792, the following definitions apply:
(a) "Animal" means a dog, wholly or in part of the species Canis familiaris, or a cat, wholly or in part of the species Felis domesticus.
(b) "Pet dealer" means any person, firm, partnership, corporation, or association, including breeders, that is required to collect sales tax for the sale of animals to the public. Pet dealer does not include humane societies, nonprofit organizations performing the functions of humane societies, or animal control agencies.
(c) "Breeder" means any person, firm, partnership, corporation, or association that breeds animals for direct or indirect sale to the public.
(d) "Broker" means a person, firm, partnership, corporation, or association that purchases animals for resale to other brokers or pet dealers.
(e) "Health problem" means any disease, illness, or congenital or hereditary condition which would impair the health or function of the animal that is apparent at the time of sale, or which should have been apparent to the seller from the veterinary history of the animal.
(f) "Veterinarian" means a licensed veterinarian in the state of Minnesota.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1992, c. 585, § 1, eff. Dec. 1, 1992.
325F.791. Sales of dogs and cats
Subdivision 1. Disclosure. Every pet dealer shall deliver to each retail purchaser of an animal written disclosure as follows:
(a) The name, address, and USDA license number of the breeder and any broker who has had possession of the animal; the date of the animal's birth; the date the pet dealer received the animal; the breed, sex, color, and identifying marks of the animal; the individual identifying tag, tattoo, or collar number; the name and registration number of the sire and dam and the litter number; and a record of inoculations, worming treatments, and medication received by the animal while in the possession of the pet dealer.
(b) A statement signed by the pet dealer that the animal has no known health problem, or a statement signed by the pet dealer disclosing any known health problem and a statement signed by a veterinarian that recommends necessary treatment.
The disclosure shall be made part of the statement of consumer rights set forth in subdivision 10. The disclosure required in paragraph (a) need not be made for mixed breed animals if the information is not available and cannot be determined by the pet dealer.
Subd. 2. Records. The pet dealer shall maintain, for one year, a copy of the statement of consumer rights delivered to the purchaser.
Subd. 3. Registration. A pet dealer who represents an animal as eligible for registration with an animal pedigree organization shall provide the retail purchaser, within 90 days of final payment, the documents necessary for registration. If these documents are not received from the pet dealer, the purchaser may retain the animal and receive a refund of 50 percent of the purchase price, or return the animal, along with all documentation previously provided, and receive a full refund. The pet dealer shall not be responsible for delays in registration which are the result of persons other than the pet dealer.
Subd. 4. Health. No animal may be offered for sale by a broker or pet dealer to a retail purchaser until the animal has been examined by a veterinarian. The veterinarian used by the broker shall not be the same veterinarian used by the pet dealer. If the pet dealer is not the breeder of the animal, each animal shall be examined within two days after receipt of the animal by a pet dealer and within four days of delivery of the animal to the purchaser by the pet dealer. The cost of the examination shall be paid by the pet dealer.
Subd. 5. Responsibilities of purchaser. To obtain the remedies provided in subdivision 6, the purchaser shall with respect to an animal with a health problem:
(a) Notify the pet dealer, within two business days, of the diagnosis by a veterinarian of a health problem and provide the pet dealer with the name and telephone number of the veterinarian and a copy of the veterinarian's report on the animal.
(b) If the purchaser wishes to receive a full refund for the animal, return the animal no later than two business days after receipt of a written statement from a veterinarian indicating the animal is unfit due to a health problem.
With respect to a dead animal the purchaser must provide the pet dealer a written statement from a veterinarian, indicating the animal died from a health problem which existed on or before the receipt of the animal by the purchaser.
Subd. 6. Rights of the purchaser. If, within ten days after receipt of the animal by the purchaser, a veterinarian states, in writing, that the animal has a health problem which existed in the animal at the time of delivery, or if within one year after receipt of the animal by the purchaser, a veterinarian states, in writing, that the animal has died or is ill due to a hereditary or congenital defect, or is not of the breed type represented, the animal shall be considered to have been unfit for sale at the time of sale.
In the event an animal dies due to a health problem which existed in the animal at the time of delivery to the purchaser, the pet dealer shall provide the purchaser with one of the following remedies selected by the purchaser: receive an animal, of equal value, if available, and reimbursement for reasonable veterinary fees, such reimbursements not to exceed the original purchase price of the animal; or receive a refund of the full purchase price.
In the event of a health problem, which existed at the time of delivery to the purchaser, the pet dealer shall provide the purchaser with one of the following remedies selected by the purchaser: return the animal to the pet dealer for a refund of the full purchase price; exchange the animal for an animal of the purchaser's choice of equivalent value, providing a replacement is available; or retain the animal, and receive reimbursement for reasonable veterinary fees, such reimbursements not to exceed the original purchase price of the animal.
The price of veterinary service shall be deemed reasonable if the service is appropriate for the diagnosis and treatment of the health problem and the price of the service is comparable to that of similar service rendered by other veterinarians in proximity to the treating veterinarian.
Subd. 7. Rights of pet dealer. No refund, replacement, or reimbursement of veterinary fees shall be required if any one or more of the following conditions exist:
(a) The health problem or death resulted from maltreatment, neglect, or a disease contracted while in the possession of the purchaser, or from an injury sustained subsequent to receipt of the animal by the purchaser.
(b) A veterinarian's statement was provided to the purchaser pursuant to subdivision 1, paragraph (b), which disclosed the health problem for which the purchaser seeks to return the animal.
(c) The purchaser fails to carry out recommended treatment prescribed by the examining veterinarian, pursuant to subdivision 1, paragraph (b).
Subd. 8. Contest.
(a) In the event that a pet dealer wishes to contest a demand for the relief specified in subdivision 3 or 6, the pet dealer may require the purchaser to produce the animal for examination or autopsy by a veterinarian designated by the pet dealer. The pet dealer shall pay the cost of this examination or autopsy. The pet dealer shall have a right of recovery against the purchaser if the pet dealer is not obligated to provide a remedy under subdivision 6.
(b) If the pet dealer does not provide the relief selected by the purchaser set forth in subdivision 3 or 6, the purchaser may initiate a court action.
(c) The prevailing party in the court action shall have the right to recover costs and reasonable attorney fees not to exceed $500.
Subd. 9. Posted notice. Every pet dealer shall post in a prominent location of the facility, a notice, in 48-point boldface type, containing the following language:
"Information on all dogs and cats is available. You are entitled to a statement of consumer rights. Make sure you receive this statement at the time of purchase."
Subd. 10. Statement of consumer rights. Every pet dealer shall provide the retail purchaser a written notice of rights, which shall be signed by the purchaser, acknowledging that the purchaser has reviewed the notice, and signed by the pet dealer certifying the accuracy of the information contained in it. A signed copy shall be retained by the pet dealer and one given to the purchaser. The notice shall be in 16-point boldface type and shall state as follows:
"A STATEMENT OF MINNESOTA LAW GOVERNING THE SALE OF DOGS AND CATS
The sale of dogs and cats is subject to consumer protection regulations. Minnesota law also provides safeguards to protect pet dealers and animal purchasers. Attached is a copy of Minnesota Statutes, section 325F.79. Contained within this law is a statement of your consumer rights."
The statement of consumer rights shall also contain or have attached the disclosures required under subdivision 1.
Subd. 11. Limitation. Nothing in this subdivision shall limit the rights or remedies which are otherwise available to a purchaser under any other law. Any agreement or contract by a purchaser to waive any rights under this chapter shall be null and void and shall be unenforceable.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1992, c. 585, § 2, eff. Dec. 1, 1992.
325F.792. Additional penalties
Subdivision 1. Criminal penalty. A violation of any United States Department of Agriculture statute or regulation covering animal breeders or groomers, pet dealers, or the transportation of dogs or cats is a misdemeanor.
Subd. 2. Civil penalty.
(a) A pet dealer who:
(1) sells an animal without delivery of the disclosure required in section 325F.791, subdivision 1;
(2) fails to maintain the records required by section 325F.791, subdivision 2;
(3) fails to provide registration papers as provided in section 325F.791, subdivision 3;
(4) fails to make or provide payment for the examinations required by section 325F.791, subdivision 4;
(5) fails to post the notice required by section 325F.791, subdivision 9; or
(6) fails to provide the statement of consumer rights required by section 325F.791, subdivision 10,
is subject to a civil fine of up to $1,000 per violation.
(b) Civil fines collected under this subdivision shall be collected by the court and turned over to the prosecuting attorney.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1992, c. 585, § 3, eff. Dec. 1, 1992.
Police Regulations. Chapter 346. Stray Animals; Companion Animals. Estrays.
No person shall take up any estray, except horses or mules, unless such estray shall be found on lands owned or occupied by the person in the town wherein the person resides.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
346.02. Finder to give notice; penalty- 346.02. Repealed by Laws 2023, c. 52, art. 19, § 42, eff. July 1, 2023
Former text:
A person who finds an estray and knows who owns it shall notify the owner within seven days after finding the estray and request the owner to pay all reasonable charges and take such estray away. A finder who does not know who owns the estray shall within ten days file a notice with the town clerk. The clerk shall transmit a copy thereof to the county recorder, who shall record the same in a book designated "estray book." The finder shall give posted notice of the finding of the estray in said town. The notice shall briefly describe the estray, giving its marks, natural and artificial, as nearly as practicable, naming the residence of the finder, and specifying the town, section, and time when taken up. For failure to give such notice, the finder shall be liable to the owner of the estray in double the amount of damages sustained by the owner thereby.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1976, c. 181, § 2; Laws 1984, c. 543, § 31; Laws 1986, c. 444.
Every finder of an estray of the value of $10 or more at the time of taking up shall, within one month, have it appraised by a county or municipal judge. The certificate of appraisement shall be filed with the town clerk. The finder shall pay 50 cents for the certificate and six cents per mile for each mile necessarily traveled to make the appraisal.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1983, c. 359, § 34.
The person entitled to the possession of any estray, at any time within one year after notice is filed with the town clerk, may have it restored upon proving the right to it and paying all lawful charges that occur in relation to it. If the person and the finder cannot agree as to the amount of the charges, or upon what should be allowed for the use of the estray, either party, on notice to the other, may apply to a district court judge to settle the disagreement. The judge may examine witnesses on oath. If any amount is owed to the finder, over the value of the use of the estray, the money, with costs, shall be a lien upon the estray. The costs of the adjudication shall be allocated by the judge.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1983, c. 359, § 35; Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 1998, c. 254, art. 2, § 33.
If no claimant for such estray shall cause its return to the claimant as before provided, and if such estray shall not have been appraised at more than $10, the finder shall thereupon become the owner thereof; but, if such appraised value exceeds $10, the estray shall be sold at public auction by any peace officer of the county on the request of the finder. Notice thereof shall be given and the sale conducted and the same fees allowed as in case of sales upon justice's execution. The finder may bid at such sale, and at the time thereof shall deliver to such officer a statement, in writing, of the finder's charges. After deducting such charges, if reasonable, and the costs of sale, the officer shall deposit the remainder of the money, together with the written statement and a statement of the costs of sale, with the county treasurer, taking the treasurer's receipt therefor. If the finder of any such estray shall fail to cause the sale to be made, the finder shall pay to the town the value of the estray, to be recovered in an action by the town.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 2005, c. 10, art. 2, § 2.
346.06. Money, how disposed of
If the money so deposited be not claimed by the former owner of the estray within one year after such sale, the same shall be paid by the county treasurer into the public school fund.
HISTORICAL AND STATUTORY NOTES
2004 Main Volume
Derivation:
346.07. Removal of estray; neglect to give notice
If any person, without the consent of the finder, shall take away any estray taken up pursuant to this chapter, without first paying all lawful charges incurred in relation to the same, the person shall be liable to the finder for the value of the estray; and, if any person taking up the estray shall neglect to comply with the provisions of this chapter, that person shall be precluded from acquiring any right of property in such estray and from receiving any charges or compensation in relation thereto.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
346.08. Distraint of animals doing damage
The owner or occupant of lands may distrain any beast doing damage thereon, either while upon the premises or upon immediate pursuit of such beast escaping therefrom, and before returning to the enclosure or immediate care of the owner or keeper, and keep such beast upon the distrainer's premises, or in some public ground in the distrainer's town, until the damages shall be appraised, as hereinafter provided.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
Subdivision 1. Notice; appraisers. The person distraining shall give notice to the owner of the beast, if known to the distrainer, within 24 hours if the owner resides in the same town, and within 48 hours if the owner resides in another town in the same county, Sundays excepted. The notice shall specify the time when and the place where distrained, the number of beasts, and the place of their detention, and that at a time and place stated therein, which shall not be less than 12 hours after the service of the notice, nor more than three days after the distress, the distrainer will apply to a designated judge of the county for the appointment of appraisers to appraise the damages. If the owner is unknown or does not reside in the county, the distraining person shall apply for the appointment of appraisers within 24 hours after the distress without notice. After the application, the judge shall appoint three disinterested residents of the town to appraise the damages.
Subd. 2. Owners right to appraisal. If the distraining person fails to apply for appointment of appraisers within the time designated in subdivision 1, the owner of the beasts distrained may in the same manner apply for appointment of appraisers.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1953, c. 8, § 1; Laws 1983, c. 359, § 36; Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 2006, c. 260, art. 5, § 7, eff. July 1, 2006.
346.10. Appraisement; procedure
The appraisers, immediately after their appointment, shall be sworn and view the damage done. They may take the evidence of any witnesses of the facts and circumstances necessary to enable them to ascertain the extent of such damage, and the insufficiency of any line fence on the premises where the damage was done, if any dispute shall arise touching the same, and may administer oaths to such witnesses. They shall certify, under their hands, the amount of such damages, and the costs of keeping such beasts to that time, with their fees, not exceeding $1 per day each; and their determination as to such damages, and the sufficiency of such fence, if in dispute, shall be conclusive.
HISTORICAL AND STATUTORY NOTES
2004 Main Volume
Derivation:
346.11. Tender by owner; effect
At any time before proceedings are begun for such appraisement, or before action is brought for the recovery of damages, the owner or the owner's agent may tender, to the person aggrieved by the depredation of such animal, the amount of damages which such owner may believe has been sustained. If the tender be accepted, no further damages shall be recovered in any way; if refused, and the person aggrieved fails to substantiate or recover as damages a sum greater than that tendered, no costs, disbursements, or expenses shall be collected or recovered in the aggrieved person's favor, but the aggrieved person shall pay the costs and disbursements of such owner.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
Unless the damages so ascertained, together with the fees of the appraisers and justice, shall be paid within 24 hours after appraisal, the person distraining shall cause the beasts to be put into the nearest pound of the same town, if there be one; and, if not, then in some secure enclosure therein, where the same shall remain until sold, as hereinafter directed, or until the damages, fees, and the costs of keeping the beasts after appraisal shall be paid, or until otherwise seized or discharged according to law. From the time of seizure until discharged or sold, such beasts shall be furnished with suitable food, the expense of which, after the appraisal, shall be added thereto as additional costs; and, if the beasts be put in a pound, the certificate of appraisal shall be delivered to the keeper thereof.
HISTORICAL AND STATUTORY NOTES
2004 Main Volume
Derivation:
346.13. Poundmaster; custody; sale; time; notice
The poundmaster shall receive and keep in the public pound any beasts so delivered to the poundmaster; and, unless seized or discharged according to law within six days, shall sell the same or as many as shall be necessary to pay such damages, fees, and costs, at public auction, giving three days' posted notice thereof, and posting one such notice on the pound.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
346.14. Sale of animal not impounded
If, by reason of there being no pound within such town, such beasts shall be kept within some other enclosure, and shall not be discharged therefrom in the manner hereinbefore provided within six days after being placed therein, the sheriff or any constable of the county shall sell such beasts, or so many as may be necessary to pay such damages, fees, and costs of keeping, upon the same notice as is required in sales of personal property, on execution.
HISTORICAL AND STATUTORY NOTES
2004 Main Volume
Derivation:
The purchaser of any animal sold under sections 346.13 and 346.14 shall keep the same at least two months, during which time the owner may redeem such animal by paying all costs and charges of keeping, and the amount paid therefor at the sale, with interest thereon at 12 percent per annum.
HISTORICAL AND STATUTORY NOTES
2004 Main Volume
Derivation:
346.155. Possessing regulated animals
Subdivision 1. Definitions. (a) The definitions in this subdivision apply to this section.
(b) “Person” means any natural person, firm, partnership, corporation, or association, however organized.
(c) “Wildlife sanctuary” means a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that:
(1) operates a place of refuge where abused, neglected, unwanted, impounded, abandoned, orphaned, or displaced wildlife are provided care for their lifetime;
(2) does not conduct any commercial activity with respect to any animal of which the organization is an owner; and
(3) does not buy, sell, trade, auction, lease, loan, or breed any animal of which the organization is an owner, except as an integral part of the species survival plan of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.
(d) “Possess” means to own, care for, have custody of, or control.
(e) “Regulated animal” means:
(1) all members of the Felidae family including, but not limited to, lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, cheetahs, ocelots, and servals, but not including domestic cats or cats recognized as a domestic breed, registered as a domestic breed, and shown as a domestic breed by a national or international multibreed cat registry association;
(2) bears; and
(3) all nonhuman primates, including, but not limited to, lemurs, monkeys, chimpanzees, gorillas, orangutans, marmosets, lorises, and tamarins.
Regulated animal includes any hybrid or cross between an animal listed in clause (1), (2), or (3) and a domestic animal and offspring from all subsequent generations of those crosses or hybrids.
(f) “Local animal control authority” means an agency of the state, county, municipality, or other governmental subdivision of the state that is responsible for animal control operations in its jurisdiction.
(g) “Bodily harm,” “substantial bodily harm,” and “great bodily harm” have the meanings given them in section 609.02.
Subd. 2. Possession of regulated animals. (a) Except as provided in this section, it is unlawful for a person to possess a regulated animal.
(b) A person who possesses a regulated animal on January 1, 2005, has 90 days to come into compliance with regulations promulgated by the United States Department of Agriculture for regulated animals under the Animal Welfare Act, Public Law 89-544, and its subsequent amendments, and the regulations adopted under that act relating to facilities and operations, animal health and husbandry, and veterinary care for regulated animals.
(c) Except as provided in paragraph (e), a person must not take possession of a regulated animal after January 1, 2005.
(d) Except as provided in paragraph (e), a person must not allow regulated animals in their possession to breed after January 1, 2005.
(e) Except as provided in paragraph (g), a person who possesses a valid United States Department of Agriculture license and is in compliance with the United States Department of Agriculture Animal Welfare Act regulations and standards on January 1, 2005, may breed, purchase, or otherwise acquire new regulated animals after January 1, 2005, in order to:
(1) maintain the operating inventory of regulated animals possessed on January 1, 2005;
(2) sell regulated animals to other United States Department of Agriculture licensed and compliant facilities within Minnesota for replacement purposes as provided in clause (1);
(3) sell regulated animals outside Minnesota; or
(4) sell regulated animals to persons eligible under paragraph (f). Offspring under six months of age shall not be counted for the purpose of determining the number of replacement animals that can be possessed under this paragraph.
(f) Except as provided in paragraph (g), a person who does not hold a United States Department of Agriculture license for regulated animals, possesses a regulated animal on January 1, 2005, and has properly registered the animal may replace the regulated animal if it dies, but may replace it only once.
(g) If a regulated animal dies of neglect or cruelty, is seized pursuant to subdivision 5, or if the person is involved in illegal activities, the person cannot acquire a replacement animal.
Subd. 3. Registration. (a) Within 60 days after January 1, 2005, a person who possesses a regulated animal must notify in writing the local animal control authority using a registration form prepared by the Minnesota Animal Control Association and approved by the Board of Animal Health. The notification shall include the person's name, address, telephone number, and a complete inventory of each regulated animal that the person possesses. The inventory shall include the following information: number and species of each regulated animal; the microchip number and manufacturer for each regulated animal if available; the exact location where each regulated animal is kept; and age, sex, color, weight, scars, and any distinguishing marks of each regulated animal.
(b) If a person who possesses a regulated animal has a microchip implanted in the animal for identification, the name of the microchip manufacturer and the identification number of the microchip must be provided to the local animal control authority. If a regulated animal is sedated for any reason and the animal does not have a microchip implanted, a microchip must be implanted in the regulated animal. Within 30 days after the microchip is implanted, the name of the microchip manufacturer and the identification number of the microchip must be provided to the local animal control authority. A person selling or transferring ownership of offspring under six months of age as provided in subdivision 2, paragraph (e), is encouraged to have a microchip implanted in the animal prior to the sale or transfer. Within 30 days of acquisition, a person acquiring ownership of an offspring with a microchip implanted shall comply with microchip information reporting requirements under this section.
(c) If a local animal control authority performs an initial site inspection, a fee of up to $50 may be charged. An annual fee of $25 per animal to register regulated animals up to a maximum of $250 annually per person may be charged. The local animal control authority may charge an additional site inspection fee of $50 if the person acquires and possesses another type of regulated animal. A certificate of registration must be issued by the local animal control authority to the person upon payment of the fee.
Subd. 4. Requirements. (a) A person who possesses a regulated animal must maintain health and ownership records on each animal and must maintain the records for the life of the animal. If possession of the regulated animal is transferred to another person, a copy of the health and ownership records must accompany the animal.
(b) A person who possesses a regulated animal must maintain an ongoing program of veterinary care which includes a veterinary visit to the premises at least annually.
(c) A person who possesses a regulated animal must notify the local animal control authority in writing within ten days of a change in address or location where the regulated animal is kept. The notification of change in address or location form must be prepared by the Minnesota Animal Control Association and approved by the Board of Animal Health.
(d) A person with a United States Department of Agriculture license for regulated animals shall forward a copy of the United States Department of Agriculture inspection report to the local animal control authority within 30 days of receipt of the inspection report.
(e) A person who possesses a regulated animal shall prominently display a sign on the structure where the animal is housed indicating that a dangerous regulated animal is on the premises.
(f) A person who possesses a regulated animal must notify, as soon as practicable, local law enforcement officials of any escape of a regulated animal. The person who possesses the regulated animal is liable for any costs incurred by any person, city, county, or state agency resulting from the escape of a regulated animal unless the escape is due to a criminal act by another person or a natural event.
(g) A person who possesses a regulated animal must maintain a written recovery plan in the event of the escape of a regulated animal. The person must maintain live traps, or other equipment necessary to assist in the recovery of the regulated animal.
(h) A person may not move a regulated animal from its location unless the person notifies the local animal control authority prior to moving the animal. The notification must include the date and the location where the animal is to be moved. This paragraph does not apply to a regulated animal transported to a licensed veterinarian.
(i) If a person who possesses a regulated animal can no longer care for the animal, the person shall take steps to find long-term placement for the regulated animal.
Subd. 5. Seizure. (a) The local animal control authority, upon issuance of a notice of inspection, must be granted access at reasonable times to sites where the local animal control authority has reason to believe a violation of this chapter is occurring or has occurred.
(b) If a person who possesses a regulated animal is not in compliance with the requirements of this section, the local animal control authority shall take possession of the animal for custody and care, provided that the procedures in this subdivision are followed.
(c) Upon request of a person possessing a regulated animal, the local animal control authority may allow the animal to remain in the physical custody of the owner for 30 days, during which time the owner shall take all necessary actions to come in compliance with this section. During the 30-day period, the local animal control authority may inspect, at any reasonable time, the premises where the animal is kept.
(d) If a person who possesses a regulated animal is not in compliance with this section following the 30-day period described in paragraph (c), the local animal control authority shall seize the animal and place it in a holding facility that is appropriate for the species for up to ten days.
(e) The authority taking custody of an animal under this section shall provide a notice of the seizure by delivering or mailing it to the owner, by posting a copy of it at the place where the animal is taken into custody, or by delivering it to a person residing on the property. The notice must include:
(1) a description of the animal seized; the authority for and purpose of the seizure; the time, place, and circumstances under which the animal was seized; and a contact person and telephone number;
(2) a statement that a person from whom a regulated animal was seized may post security to prevent disposition of the animal and may request a hearing concerning the seizure and that failure to do so within five business days of the date of the notice will result in disposition of the animal;
(3) a statement that actual costs of the care, keeping, and disposal of the regulated animal are the responsibility of the person from whom the animal was seized, except to the extent that a court or hearing officer finds that the seizure or impoundment was not substantially justified by law; and
(4) a form that can be used by a person from whom a regulated animal was seized for requesting a hearing under this subdivision.
(f) If a person from whom the regulated animal was seized makes a request within five business days of the seizure, a hearing must be held within five business days of the request to determine the validity of the seizure and disposition of the animal. The judge or hearing officer may authorize the return of the animal to the person from whom the animal was seized if the judge or hearing officer finds:
(1) that the person can and will provide the care required by law for the regulated animal; and
(2) the regulated animal is physically fit.
(g) If a judge or hearing officer orders a permanent disposition of the regulated animal, the local animal control authority may take steps to find long-term placement for the animal with a wildlife sanctuary, persons authorized by the Department of Natural Resources, or an appropriate United States Department of Agriculture licensed facility.
(h) A person from whom a regulated animal is seized is liable for all actual costs of care, keeping, and disposal of the animal, except to the extent that a court or hearing officer finds that the seizure was not substantially justified by law. The costs must be paid in full or a mutually satisfactory arrangement for payment must be made between the local animal control authority and the person claiming an interest in the animal before return of the animal to the person.
(i) A person from whom a regulated animal has been seized under this subdivision may prevent disposition of the animal by posting security in the amount sufficient to provide for the actual costs of care and keeping of the animal. The security must be posted within five business days of the seizure, inclusive of the day of the seizure.
(j) If circumstances exist threatening the life of a person or the life of any animal, local law enforcement or the local animal control authority may seize a regulated animal without an opportunity for hearing or court order, or destroy the animal.
Subd. 6. Disposal of animals. Upon proper determination by a Minnesota licensed veterinarian, any regulated animal taken into custody under this section may be immediately disposed of when the regulated animal is suffering and is beyond cure through reasonable care and treatment. The authority taking custody of the regulated animal may recover all costs incurred under this section.
Subd. 7. Exemptions. This section does not apply to:
(1) institutions accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association;
(2) a wildlife sanctuary;
(3) fur-bearing animals, as defined in section 97A.015, possessed by a game farm that is licensed under section 97A.105, or bears possessed by a game farm that is licensed under section 97A.105;
(4) the Department of Natural Resources, or a person authorized by permit issued by the commissioner of natural resources pursuant to section 97A.401, subdivision 3;
(5) a licensed or accredited research or medical institution;
(6) a United States Department of Agriculture licensed exhibitor of regulated animals while transporting or as part of a circus, carnival, rodeo, or fair; or
(7) a zoo that: (i) is a United States Department of Agriculture-licensed exhibitor of regulated animals; (ii) houses animals owned by institutions accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association; and (iii) participates in the American Zoo and Aquarium Association Species Survival Plan.
Subd. 8. License transfer. Nothing in this section precludes a person who holds a valid United States Department of Agriculture license from selling or transferring the entire business and the regulated animals covered by that license to another person who holds a valid United States Department of Agriculture license.
Subd. 9. Report to Board of Animal Health. By July 1 each year, a local animal control authority shall report to the Board of Animal Health on regulated animals registered with the local animal control authority. The report shall include all registration information submitted to the local animal control authority under subdivision 3, paragraph (a), and information on enforcement actions taken under this section.
Subd. 9a. Confinement and control. A person violates this subdivision who possesses a regulated animal and negligently fails to control the animal or keep it properly confined and as a result the animal causes bodily harm, substantial bodily harm, or great bodily harm to another person.
Subd. 10. Penalty. (a) A person who knowingly violates subdivision 2, 3, paragraph (b) or (c), or 4 is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(b) A person who knowingly violates subdivision 3, paragraph (a), is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
(c) A person who violates subdivision 9a, resulting in bodily harm is guilty of a misdemeanor and may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than 90 days or to payment of a fine of not more than $1,000, or both.
(d) A person who violates subdivision 9a, resulting in substantial bodily harm is guilty of a gross misdemeanor and may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than 364 days or to payment of a fine of not more than $3,000, or both.
(e) A person who violates subdivision 9a, resulting in great bodily harm or death is guilty of a felony and may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than two years or to payment of a fine of not more than $5,000, or both, unless a greater penalty is provided elsewhere.
Credits
Laws 2004, c. 264, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2005. Amended by Laws 2006, c. 260, art. 1, § 5; Laws 2006, c. 260, art. 1, §§ 6, 7, eff. Aug. 1, 2006; Laws 2006, c. 260, art. 1, §§ 8, 9; Laws 2022, c. 95, art. 2, § 28, eff. May 27, 2022; Laws 2023, c. 52, art. 6, § 16.
346.16. Running at large; defined; prohibited; treble damages
The herding of any animal of the species of cattle, horse, ass, mule, sheep, swine, or goat upon any land over the protest and against the will of the owner shall be deemed a running at large.
It shall be unlawful for any owner or any person having the control of any such animal to permit the same to run at large in the state.
Any person who shall knowingly permit the running at large of any such domestic animal shall be liable to the person aggrieved for treble damages sustained by the aggrieved person, to be recovered in a civil action brought for that purpose.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
From the proceeds of such sale the person making it shall retain sales fees, which shall be the same as are allowed constables on execution sales, and the costs of keeping such beasts, and shall pay to the distrainer the damages so certified, with fees of the appraisers and justice; and the surplus, if any, shall be paid to the owner of the beasts, if known. If no one appears at the time of the sale, or within one week thereafter, who claims such surplus, the same shall be paid to the treasurer of the town, to be paid to the owner of the beasts, if claimed within one year after the distress. If not applied for within one year, the money shall be applied to the use of the town.
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 2005, c. 10, art. 2, § 4, subd. 2.
346.18. Taking distrained beasts a misdemeanor
If any person, without authority of law, and without first paying the damages and costs, takes any distrained beast out of the possession of the person making the distress, or that of the sheriff or poundmaster, as the case may be, without the possessor's consent, the taker shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and shall also be liable to the person injured in double the amount of the damage done by such beasts.
Credits
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 2005, c. 10, art. 2, § 4, subd. 2.
346.19. Repealed by Laws 2001, c. 21, § 1
346.20 to 346.34. Renumbered in chapter 343 in St.1982
Sections 346.35 to 346.44 may be cited as the “Pet and Companion Animal Welfare Act.”
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1983, c. 358, § 1.
Subdivision 1. Scope. Sections 346.35 to 346.44 shall only apply to veterinarians, animal boarding facilities, and commercial animal facilities. As used in sections 346.35 to 346.44 the terms defined in this section have the meanings given them.
Subd. 2. Abuse. "Abuse" means intentionally causing unnecessary pain, injury, suffering, or harassment to a pet or companion animal.
Subd. 3. Cruelty. "Cruelty" means causing or allowing unnecessary pain, suffering, or unjustifiable injury or death to a pet or companion animal.
Subd. 4. Expert opinion. "Expert opinion" means the opinion of at least one licensed Minnesota veterinarian selected by an investigating officer.
Subd. 5. Neglect. "Neglect" means failure to provide the minimum care required for the health and well-being of a pet or companion animal.
Subd. 6. Pet or companion animal. "Pet" or "companion animal" means a nonhuman mammal, bird, or reptile impounded or held for breeding, or possessed by, cared for, or controlled by a person for the present or future enjoyment of that person or another.
Subd. 7. Shelter; confinement area. "Shelter" or "confinement area" means an enclosure provided to protect or confine a pet or companion animal when it is not in transit.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1983, c. 358, § 2. Amended by Laws 1983, c. 216, art. 2, § 14, eff. Aug. 1, 1983.
(See also Chapter 343. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Crimes, Criminals (Ch. 609-624). Chapter 609. Criminal Code. 343.215. Veterinarian immunity effective 2020)
Subdivision 1. Abandoned animals.
(a) If an animal is left with a veterinarian, boarding facility, or commercial facility pursuant to a written agreement with the owner or person in possession of the animal and the owner or lawful possessor of the animal has not claimed the animal within ten days after notice in accordance with paragraph (b) or (d), the animal is abandoned and the owner has no further rights or claim to the animal.
(b) The notice required under paragraph (a), must be given by the veterinarian, boarding facility, or commercial facility to the owner or the owner's agent at the person's last known address by certified mail, return receipt requested, or may be served upon the owner or owner's agent in the manner that a summons is served in a civil court action in the district courts. The notice must notify the owner or owner's agent that the animal may be redeemed by paying all prior expenses incurred within ten days or the animal is abandoned and will be disposed of in accordance with this subdivision.
(c) If the animal is not claimed within ten days, the veterinarian, boarding facility, or commercial facility becomes the owner of the animal and the animal may be disposed of by the veterinarian, boarding facility, or commercial facility as they consider proper. Upon the veterinarian, boarding facility, or commercial facility becoming the owner of the animal, the veterinarian, boarding facility, or commercial facility is relieved of any liability for disposal of the animal.
(d) If the notice under paragraph (c) is not given to the owner or owner's agent, or if the address of the owner or owner's agent is not known, notice must be given by the veterinarian, boarding facility, or commercial facility by publishing one notice in a legal newspaper circulated in the county where the animal was delivered to the veterinarian, boarding facility, or commercial facility not less than ten days before the animal is to become the property of the veterinarian, boarding facility, or commercial facility under paragraph (c). The published notice must contain the information required in paragraph (b).
(e) Each veterinarian, boarding facility, or commercial facility shall warn its patrons of the provisions of this subdivision by a conspicuously posted notice or by conspicuous type in a written document delivered to the owner or the owner's agent.
Subd. 2. Good samaritans. A person is not liable for rendering humane assistance to an injured pet or companion animal.
Subd. 3. Cruel training or handling. A person may not inflict cruelty on a pet or companion animal by the use of a cruel training or handling device or method.
Subd. 4. Health care. Adequate health care, including parasite and pest control, must be provided to each pet or companion animal.
Subd. 5. Interpretation of terms. A dispute as to the meaning of "abuse," "cruelty," or "neglect" shall be resolved by an expert opinion.
Subd. 6. Reports of abuse, cruelty, or neglect. A veterinarian must report known or suspected cases of abuse, cruelty, or neglect to peace officers and humane agents as provided in 343.12 and 343.29.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1983, c. 358, § 3. Amended by Laws 1987, c. 394, § 10, eff. June 4, 1987; Laws 1994, c. 401, § 1, eff. April 12, 1994.
346.38. Equines
Subdivision 1. Definition. "Equines" are horses, ponies, mules, and burros.
Subd. 2. Food. Equines must be provided with food of sufficient quantity and quality to allow for normal growth or the maintenance of body weight. Feed standards shall be those recommended by the National Research Council.
Subd. 3. Water. Equines must be provided with clean, potable water in sufficient quantity to satisfy the animal's needs or supplied by free choice. Snow or ice is not an adequate water source.
Subd. 4. Shelter. Equines must be provided a minimum of free choice protection or constructed shelter from adverse weather conditions, including direct rays of the sun in extreme heat or cold, wind, or precipitation. Natural or constructed shelters must be of sufficient size to provide the necessary protection. Constructed shelters must be structurally sound, free of injurious matter, maintained in good repair, and ventilated. Outside exercise paddocks for equines do not require separate constructed shelter where a shelter is accessible to the equine on adjacent or other accessible areas of the property provided that equines are not kept in outdoor exercise paddocks during adverse weather conditions.
Subd. 5. Space and cleanliness requirements. Constructed shelters except for tie stalls must provide space for the animal to: (1) roll with a minimum danger of being cast; or (2) easily stand, lie down, and turn around. Stalls must be cleaned and kept dry to the extent the animal is not required to lie or stand in fluids. Bedding must be provided in all stalls, kept reasonably clean, and periodically changed. The nature of the bedding must not pose a health hazard to the animal.
Subd. 6. Exercise. Equines must be provided opportunity for periodic exercise, either through free choice or through a forced work program, unless exercise is restricted by a licensed veterinarian.
Subd. 7. Hoof care. All equines must have their hooves properly trimmed periodically to prevent lameness.
Subd. 8. Transportation. A vehicle used to transport an equine must have a floor capable of supporting the animal's weight safely. Floors must be of nonskid construction or of nonskid material sufficient to provide the animal with traction while in transport. A minimum of 12 inches must be allowed between the withers of the largest equine and the structure above the animal while it is in a natural standing position. Sturdy partitions must be provided at a minimum of approximately every ten feet inside the vehicle. Interior compartments of transporting vehicles must be of smooth construction with no protruding or sharp objects and must provide ventilation. Food and water must be provided in sufficient quantities to minimize stress and maintain hydration.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1983, c. 358, § 4. Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 1998, c. 402, §§ 3, 4.
Subdivision 1. Food. Dogs and cats must be provided with food of sufficient quantity and quality to allow for normal growth or the maintenance of body weight. Feed standards shall be those recommended by the National Research Council.
Subd. 2. Water. Dogs and cats must be provided with clean, potable water in sufficient quantity to satisfy the animal's needs or supplied by free choice. Snow or ice is not an adequate water source.
Subd. 3. Transportation and shipment. When dogs or cats are transported in crates or containers, the crates or containers must be constructed of nonabrasive wire or a smooth, durable material suitable for the animals. Crates and containers must be clean, adequately ventilated, contain sufficient space to allow the animals to turn around, and provide maximum safety and protection to the animals. Exercise for 20 to 30 minutes and water must be provided at least once every eight hours. Food must be provided at least once every 24 hours or more often, if necessary, to maintain the health and condition of the animals.
Subd. 4. Shelter size. A confinement area must provide sufficient space to allow each animal to turn about freely and to easily stand, sit, and lie in a normal position. Each confined animal must be provided a minimum square footage of floor space as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, plus 25 percent, expressed in square feet. The formula for computing minimum square footage is: (length of animal plus 25 percent) times (length of animal plus 25 percent), divided by 144. A shaded area must be provided sufficient to protect the animal from the direct rays of the sun at all times during the months of May to October.
Subd. 5. Exercise. All dogs and cats must be provided the opportunity for periodic exercise, either through free choice or through a forced work program, unless exercise is restricted by a licensed veterinarian.
Subd. 6. Group housing and breeding. Animals housed together must be kept in compatible groups. Animals must not be bred so often as to endanger their health.
Subd. 7. Temperature. Confinement areas must be maintained at a temperature suitable for the animal involved.
Subd. 8. Ventilation. An indoor confinement area must be ventilated. Drafts, odors, and moisture condensation must be minimized. Auxiliary ventilation, such as exhaust fans, vents, and air conditioning, must be used when the ambient temperature rises to a level that may endanger the health of the animal.
Subd. 9. Lighting. An indoor confinement area must have at least eight hours of illumination sufficient to permit routine inspection and cleaning.
Subd. 10. Confinement and exercise area surfaces. Where applicable, the interior surfaces of confinement and exercise areas, including crates or containers, must be constructed and maintained so that they are substantially impervious to moisture and may be readily cleaned. They must protect the animal from injury and be kept in good repair.
Subd. 11. Drainage. Where applicable, a suitable method must be used to rapidly eliminate excess fluids from confinement areas.
Subd. 12. Sanitation. Food and water receptacles must be accessible to each animal and located so as to minimize contamination by excreta. Feeding and water receptacles must be kept clean. Disposable food receptacles must be discarded when soiled. Measures must be taken to protect animals from being contaminated with water, wastes, and harmful chemicals. Wastes must be disposed of properly. Where applicable, flushing methods and a disinfectant must be used periodically. Bedding, if used, must be kept clean and dry.
Outdoor enclosures must be kept clean and base material replaced as necessary.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1983, c. 358, § 5.
346.40. Pet birds
Subdivision 1. Food. Birds must be fed at least once each day except as otherwise required to provide adequate health care. The food must be wholesome, palatable, and of sufficient quantity and nutritive value to meet the normal daily requirements for the condition and size of the bird, and must be free from contamination.
Subd. 2. Water. Except for birds in shipment for less than four hours, all birds must be provided with clean, potable water in sufficient quantity to satisfy the bird's needs or supplied by free choice. Snow or ice is not an adequate water source.
Subd. 3. Transportation. Birds may be transported only in containers constructed of a smooth, durable material. Containers must:
(a) be suitable for the species being shipped;
(b) be constructed to prevent escape or chewing of the container by the bird that may be injurious to the health of the bird;
(c) have ventilation on only one side to prevent cross drafts;
(d) provide enough space for the bird to stand up, turn around, and obtain necessary food, water, and roosting space;
(e) have fresh food and water available to the bird at all times if the shipping period exceeds four hours.
Subd. 4. Shelter or cage construction. A shelter or cage for a bird must be constructed of materials that are impervious to moisture and can be readily cleaned. Perches or other space must be provided to allow the bird to roost without physical harassment from other birds.
Subd. 5. Exercise. Room must be provided for a bird to obtain exercise to maintain itself in good health.
Subd. 6. Temperature. A confinement area must be maintained at a temperature suitable for the bird involved.
Subd. 7. Ventilation. A bird shelter or cage must provide ventilation with minimized drafts, odors, and moisture condensation.
Subd. 8. Lighting. Shelters or cages for birds must have at least eight hours of either natural or artificial light to allow for intake of food and water. Lighting must be of sufficient intensity and distribution to permit routine inspection and cleaning on a regular basis.
Subd. 9. Sanitation. Excreta must be removed from the bottom of a bird cage on a regular basis to prevent the contamination of the caged bird. The cage, perches, and food and water receptacles must be cleaned on a regular basis.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1983, c. 358, § 6.
346.41. Rodents
Subdivision 1. Food. Food must be made available to every pet rodent at least once a day. This food must be fresh, wholesome, palatable, free from contamination, and of sufficient nutritive value to meet the normal daily requirements necessary to maintain the health and condition of the animal.
Subd. 2. Water. A pet rodent must be provided with clean, potable water in sufficient quantity to satisfy the animal's needs or supplied by free choice. Snow or ice is not an adequate water source.
Subd. 3. Transportation. Rodents may be transported only in containers constructed of a smooth, durable material. Containers must:
(a) be constructed so as to prevent escape or injury by chewing;
(b) provide fresh air to each contained animal and yet prevent exposure to injurious drafts;
(c) provide enough space for each animal to stand up, turn around, and obtain necessary food and water;
(d) have fresh food and water available to each animal during all shipping periods exceeding six hours. Food and water requirements may be met by providing vegetables or fruits sufficient to meet an animal's food and water needs.
Subd. 4. Shelter and cage construction. Shelters or cages must be constructed in a manner that allows cleaning of the entire surface area. The materials used must be of sufficient strength to prevent escape or injury by chewing and to protect the animal from predators.
A shelter or cage with a solid bottom must be constructed of materials that are impervious to moisture. A shelter or cage with a wire or mesh bottom must be constructed to allow excreta to pass through the spaces in the wire or mesh. The wire or mesh floor must be constructed to prevent injury to the feet and legs of the animals.
Outdoor confinement areas must provide sufficient shade to protect the animal from the direct rays of the sun and shelter the animal from rain or snow.
Subd. 5. Exercise. A shelter or cage must be of sufficient height and have sufficient floor space to allow the caged animals to obtain proper exercise and maintain good health.
Subd. 6. Temperature. A confinement area must be maintained at a temperature suitable for the confined animal.
Subd. 7. Ventilation. A shelter or cage must provide ventilation to the confined animals. It must be constructed to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. Additional ventilation must be provided when the ambient temperature rises to a level that may endanger the health of the animal.
Subd. 8. Lighting. Lighting of sufficient intensity and distribution must be available to permit routine inspection and regular cleaning.
Subd. 9. Sanitation. A shelter or cage must be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent the accumulation of excreta, hair, contaminated or wet litter, and uneaten or contaminated food. If the shelter or cage has a solid floor, the floor must be covered with clean, dry bedding which must be changed at least once a week. If the shelter or cage has a wire or mesh floor, the catch pans or troughs under the cage must be cleaned at least once a week. If the cage or shelter becomes soiled or wet to a degree that may be harmful to the caged animals due to water leakage, dead animals, or spoiled foods, the animals must be transferred to clean, dry quarters as soon as possible after discovery of the condition. The shelter or cage, and food and water receptacles, must be regularly cleaned.
Subd. 10. Chewing materials. A rodent must be provided with materials that allow necessary chewing to prevent detrimental overgrowth of the animal's teeth.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1983, c. 358, § 7.
Animals not covered in detail in sections 346.38 to 346.41 must be maintained in accordance with a general standard of care necessary for the species as determined by an expert opinion.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1983, c. 358, § 8.
Sections 346.35 to 346.44 do not apply to the care or treatment of an agricultural or farm animal which is used for food or other products or any other agricultural use.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1983, c. 358, § 9.
Except where otherwise indicated, a person found guilty of failure to comply with a provision of sections 346.36 to 346.42 is guilty of a misdemeanor.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1983, c. 358, § 10.
Subdivision 1. Definitions. As used in this section:
(1) “establishment” means any public or private agency, person, society, or corporation having custody of animals that are seized under the authority of the state or any political subdivision of the state; and
(2) “regular business day” means a day during which the establishment having custody of an animal is open to the public not less than four consecutive hours between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Subd. 2. Impoundment; record keeping. All animals seized by public authority must be held in an establishment for redemption by the owner for at least five regular business days of the establishment or for a longer time specified by municipal ordinance. Establishments must maintain the following records of the animals in custody, and preserve the records for at least six months:
(1) the description of the animal by species, breed, sex, approximate age, and other distinguishing traits;
(2) the location at which the animal was seized;
(3) the date of seizure;
(4) the name and address of the person from whom any animal three months of age or over was received; and
(5) the name and address of the person to whom any animal three months of age or over was transferred.
The records must be maintained in a form permitting easy perusal by the public. A person may view the records and animals in custody at any time during which the establishment is open to the public.
Subd. 3. Release of animals. A person must not release an animal seized and held under this section for research or product testing, either directly or through an animal dealer. This subdivision does not apply to the temporary transfer of an animal to a college of veterinary medicine or veterinary technology school accredited by the American Veterinary Medicine Association for the purpose of sterilization or needed veterinary care.
Credits
Laws 2012, c. 244, art. 1, § 73, eff. July 1, 2012.
An owner or custodian of a dog who permits the dog to be uncontrolled off the owner's or custodian's premises shall have the dog identified in one of the following ways:
(1) by a device, tag, or plate attached to the dog by a collar, harness, or device giving the name, address, and telephone number of the current owner;
(2) by an electronically activated identification device within or attached to the body of the dog through which the owner can be promptly identified;
(3) by a number legibly tattooed on the thigh, abdomen, or ear of the dog through which the owner can be promptly identified using information from official dog registries, city or county registries, veterinary hospital registries, or driver's license records;
(4) by an official license tag of a city or county through which the owner can be promptly identified; or
(5) by a current rabies vaccination tag or other identification device of a city, a county, or a veterinarian through which the owner can be promptly identified.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1985, c. 294, § 1, eff. Aug. 1, 1985.
An owner or custodian of a dog which does not have an appropriate antirabies vaccination and which bites or otherwise exposes a person to rabies virus may be penalized under section 346.53.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1985, c. 294, § 2, eff. Aug. 1, 1985.
Sections 346.50 to 346.54 do not prohibit or restrict a local governmental unit from imposing an identification or rabies control program with more restrictive provisions or prohibiting dogs from running uncontrolled.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1985, c. 294, § 3, eff. Aug. 1, 1985.
Violation of sections 346.50 and 346.51 is a petty misdemeanor.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1985, c. 294, § 4, eff. Aug. 1, 1985.
346.54. Notification of owners
Animal shelter personnel who receive animals shall check for identification on each animal, identify the owner by the identification whenever possible, and promptly notify the owner of the location of the animal by the most expedient means.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1985, c. 294, § 5, eff. Aug. 1, 1985.
Subdivision 1. Penalty. The transfer by a person other than the owner of a dog or cat to a dealer, the possession of a dog or cat by a dealer without the permission of the owner, or the transfer of a dog or cat by a dealer to an institution without the permission of the owner is prohibited. Nothing in this section prohibits the transfer of a dog or cat to a dealer if the dog or cat is removed from a property by or at the request of a person in possession of the property. For the purpose of this subdivision, "dealer" and "institution" have the meanings given them in section 347.31.
A person who transfers or possesses a dog or cat without claim of right with intent to deprive the owner permanently of possession of the dog or cat violates this section and is liable for a civil penalty of up to $1,000 per dog or cat for each violation. In bringing a civil action under this section the charging attorney shall consider, and in imposing a fine the court shall consider:
(1) the history of previous violations;
(2) the number of violations;
(3) the degree of willfulness of the violation;
(4) the good faith of the dealer;
(5) the good faith of the person delivering the dog or cat to the dealer; and
(6) the gravity of the violation.
A fine paid by the defendant in a criminal action that arose from the same violation may not be applied toward payment of the civil penalty under this subdivision.
Subd. 2. Jurisdiction. The district court may hear, try, and determine actions started under this section. Trials under this section must be to the court, sitting without a jury.
Subd. 3. Appearances. Notwithstanding section 8.01, county or city attorneys may appear for the board of animal health in civil actions started under this section at the request of the attorney general. Actions under this section may be brought in the name of the state of Minnesota with the consent of the board of animal health or directly by a city or county attorney at the request of a person filing a complaint.
Subd. 4. Venue. Civil actions under this section may be started in any county in which the animal in question was transferred or possessed, or from which the dog or cat was removed without the permission of the lawful owner.
Subd. 5. Fines. Fines collected under this section must be disposed of as follows:
(a) If the violation occurs in the county, and the county attorney appears in the action, 50 percent to the county and 50 percent to the state.
(b) If the violation occurs within the municipality, and the city attorney appears in the action, 50 percent to the city and 50 percent to the state.
(c) If the attorney general appears in the action, all penalties imposed and fines collected must be credited to the general fund in the state treasury.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1987, c. 380, art. 3, § 1. Amended by Laws 1998, c. 254, art. 2, § 34.
346.56. Unauthorized release of animals
Subdivision 1. Repealed by Laws 1989, c. 55, § 3, eff. Aug. 1, 1989.
Subd. 2. Liability for damages. A person who without permission releases an animal lawfully confined for science, research, commerce, or education is liable:
(1) to the owner of the animal for damages, including the costs of restoring the animal to confinement and to its health condition prior to release;
(2) for damage to personal and real property caused by the released animal;
(3) if the release causes the failure or interruption of an experiment, for all
costs of repeating the experiment, including replacement of the animals, labor, and materials; and
(4) for any other damage the person causes to property in the facility from which the animal was released.
Subd. 3. Amount of damages. A person who is damaged under subdivision 2, clause (3) or (4), is entitled to recover a minimum of $5,000 or three times the actual damages incurred by that person under subdivision 2, clause (3) or (4), whichever is greater, and punitive damages, costs, and reasonable attorney fees.
Subd. 4. Third party liability; presumption. A person or organization who plans or assists in the development of a plan to release, without permission, an animal lawfully confined for science, research, commerce, or education, or who otherwise aids, advises, hires, counsels, or encourages another to commit the act is jointly and severally liable for all damages under subdivision 3.
There is a rebuttable presumption that a person or organization who claims responsibility for the act is liable under this subdivision.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1988, c. 535, § 1, eff. Aug. 1, 1988. Amended by Laws 1989, c. 55, § 1; Laws 1999, c. 216, art. 6, § 14, eff. May 26, 1999.
346.57. Dogs and cats in motor vehicles
Subdivision 1. Unattended dogs or cats. A person may not leave a dog or a cat unattended in a standing or parked motor vehicle in a manner that endangers the dog's or cat's health or safety.
Subd. 2. Removal of dogs or cats. A peace officer, as defined in section 626.84, a humane agent, a dog warden, or a volunteer or professional member of a fire or rescue department of a political subdivision may use reasonable force to enter a motor vehicle and remove a dog or cat which has been left in the vehicle in violation of subdivision 1. A person removing a dog or a cat under this subdivision shall use reasonable means to contact the owner of the dog or cat to arrange for its return home. If the person is unable to contact the owner, the person may take the dog or cat to an animal shelter.
Subd. 3. Petty misdemeanor. A person who violates subdivision 1 is subject to a fine of $25.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1988, c. 711, § 6
346.58. Dogs and cats; best management standards for care by dealers, commercial breeders, and brokers
The commissioner of agriculture shall consult with interested persons, including but not limited to persons representing dog and cat dealers, breeders, and brokers, the Minnesota federated humane society, the Minnesota council for dog clubs, the American dog owners association, the board of animal health, the Minnesota purebred dog breeders association, the Minnesota citizens for animal care, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the Minnesota veterinary medical association. The commissioner shall issue an order containing best management standards of care for dogs and cats by dealers, commercial breeders, and brokers. The commissioner shall urge dealers, commercial breeders, and brokers to follow the standards issued in the order.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1994, c. 642, § 8, eff. May 11, 1994. Amended by Laws 1997, c. 187, art. 3, § 31, eff. June 30, 1997.
Police Regulations. Chapter 347. Dogs and Cats. Dogs.
347.01. Owner's liability; penalty
(a) Owners or keepers of any dog or dogs, that kill, wound, or worry any domestic animal or animals, shall be jointly and severally liable to the owner of such animal or animals for all damages done by such dog or dogs, without proving notice to or knowledge by any such owner or keeper of such dog or dogs, that any or either of them was mischievous or disposed to kill or worry any domestic animal.
(b) The owner of any dog that kills or pursues domestic livestock is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1985, c. 269, § 2.
347.02. Keeping after notice; penalty
Every person who shall keep or harbor a dog which has bitten any domestic animal, after having notice of such fact, shall pay a fine of $5 for every day the person keeps, harbors, or permits such dog to remain on the person's premises thereafter.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
Any owner or caretaker may kill any dog found chasing, injuring, or worrying sheep or other livestock or poultry owned by or in care of such owner or caretaker, on lands or premises owned or controlled by the owner or caretaker, and any owner or caretaker of sheep may kill any dog found on the owner's or caretaker's premises where sheep are kept, not under human restraint or control.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
Any dog that habitually worries, chases, or molests teams or persons traveling peaceably on the public road is a public nuisance. Upon complaint in writing to a district court judge containing a description of the dog, including the name of the dog and its owner, or stating that the name or names are not known, and alleging that the dog is a public nuisance, the judge shall issue a summons, if the owner is known, commanding the owner to appear before the judge at a specified time, not less than six nor more than ten days from the date of the summons, to answer the complaint. The summons shall be served not less than six days before the day of the hearing in the same manner as other district court summonses.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1983, c. 359, § 37; Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 1998, c. 254, art. 2, § 35; Laws 2006, c. 260, art. 5, § 8, eff. July 1, 2006.
If it appears from the complaint that the owner is not known, ten days' posted notice, containing a description of the dog as given in the complaint, and stating that a complaint has been made, and the time and place of hearing on it, shall be given in the town where the judge presides.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1983, c. 359, § 38.
347.06. Hearing; judgment; execution
The judge shall hear the evidence in the case. Upon finding that the dog is a public nuisance, the judge shall enter judgment accordingly, and shall order the appropriate public official to kill and dispose of the dog.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1983, c. 359, § 39; Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 2007, c. 13, art. 1, § 15, eff. Aug. 1, 2007.
Costs in the first instance shall be paid by the complainant, but if the dog is adjudged a nuisance, and the owner is known, judgment shall be entered against the owner therefor.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
347.08. County board may license
Subdivision 1. Establishment of licensing system. The board of county commissioners of any county is hereby authorized to establish a system of licensing and regulating the running at large of dogs, except in cities of the first class, and create a livestock indemnity fund to be handled and disbursed as hereinafter provided.
Before regulating and licensing, there must be filed with the county auditor a petition signed by at least 25 percent of the persons actually engaged in raising livestock, including poultry, in the county, as shown by the assessors' records, requesting the board to establish such system. When the petition has been filed the board of county commissioners shall establish such system; or the board of county commissioners may, by a majority vote, on their own motion and without petition, establish such system. The board of county commissioners shall exclude from the operation of sections 347.08 to 347.21, statutory cities, second, third, and fourth class cities if such city has in operation a satisfactory law regulating dogs running at large.
Subd. 2. Revocation of system. At any time after such system has been in effect for a period of two years from the date of its establishment, it may be revoked by a majority vote of the board of county commissioners, but provided that before such revocation the board shall hold a public hearing and give at least ten days' notice of such hearing by publication in at least one newspaper published or circulating in the county.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1973, c. 123, art. 5, § 7.
In every county in which sections 347.08 to 347.21 shall become operative every dog more than six months of age must have a license. The owner of any dog (the word "owner," when used in sections 347.08 to 347.21, in relation to property in, or possession of, dogs shall include every person who owns, harbors, or keeps a dog) shall, on or before February 1 each year, obtain a license for the dog, and shall pay for such license the fee prescribed by the county commissioners, which shall not be less than 50 cents nor more than $1 for a male dog and not less than $1 nor more than $2 for a female dog; such payments to be made to the town, or city clerk or deputy. The application for such license shall be in such written form as prescribed by the county auditor, and shall state the name, sex, breed, age, color and marking of the dog for which the license is sought.
The license year shall correspond to the calendar year. The sale or transfer of any licensed dog shall carry with it and transfer the license.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1973, c. 123, art. 5, § 7; Laws 1986, c. 444.
347.10. Owners of dogs and kennels; licenses
The term "kennel" shall mean any establishment where dogs are kept for the purpose of breeding, sale or sporting purposes. Any person who keeps or operates a kennel may, in lieu of the license for each dog required by sections 347.08 to 347.21, apply to the town or city treasurer for a kennel license for the keeping or operating of such kennel. For such a kennel license the person shall pay a fee of $10 for the license year. With the kennel license the clerk shall issue a number of metal tags equal to the number of dogs kept in the kennel. The tags shall be made in a form so that they may be readily distinguishable from the individual license tags for the same year. The licensee of a kennel shall at all times keep one of such tags attached to the collar of each dog over six months old kept under a kennel license. The tags may be transferred from one dog to another within the kennel whenever any dog is removed from the kennel. The clerk may appoint a deputy or deputies to issue such licenses. The clerk shall receive ten cents for each license issued, to be paid by the town out of the revenue fund.
A license shall be issued by the clerk or the clerk's deputy upon application being made therefor and upon payments made as herein provided. The license shall be in the form prescribed by the county auditor and shall be executed by the proper town, or city clerk or deputy. The license shall state the year for which it was issued, shall bear a serial number, the owner's name and address, and the name, sex, breed, and color of the dog licensed.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1973, c. 123, art. 5, § 7; Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 1993, c. 375, art. 3, § 41, eff. May 25, 1993.
347.11. Dog collars to be tagged
Subdivision 1. Metal tags and license blanks. The clerk or the clerk's deputy issuing a license shall at the same time deliver to the licensee a metal tag, which shall bear the same serial number as the license. The tag shall also bear the name of the county in which issued and the license year. The county auditor shall contract for and have prepared and furnished, annually, a sufficient number of such metal tags, and a sufficient supply of suitable blank licenses to be bound in books of proper size and perforated so that a duplicate of each license may be kept upon the stub thereof. The cost of making, printing, and furnishing the tags and blank license receipts shall be paid out of the dog license fund.
Subd. 2. Distribution. The several county auditors shall distribute these tags and license blanks to the several town and city treasurers in proper amounts, together with blank license receipts. The licensee shall securely attach the tag to a collar and this collar, with the tag attached, shall at all times be kept on the dog for which the license is issued. A new tag, with a new number, shall be furnished to the licensee by the town or city clerk, or deputy, in place of the original tag, upon presentation of the license and proof of the loss of the original tag. The town clerk or deputy shall then endorse the new tag number on the license and shall enter it upon the register. The clerk shall receive for services rendered in issuing the new tag the sum of ten cents, to be paid by the person obtaining the new tag.
Subd. 3. Duplicates to be kept; accounting. Every town or city clerk, or clerk's deputy, shall, at the time of issuing a license and before delivering it, make a complete duplicate thereof upon the stub portion of the license blank. The clerk shall, annually, during the month of January, return to the county auditor all unused tags of the preceding year, together with license books therefor and all duplicate licenses of the preceding year, and the county auditor shall carefully check the returned tags, duplicate licenses, and license blanks to ascertain whether all tags and license blanks which were furnished by the county auditor have been accounted for; and to enable the county auditor to do that, the county auditor shall charge each town or city clerk with all tags and blank licenses furnished or delivered to the clerk and credit the clerk with those returned. In case of discrepancy, the county auditor shall notify the county attorney, who shall investigate and take steps to enforce the law.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1973, c. 123, art. 5, § 7; Laws 1986, c. 444.
347.12. Fees paid to county treasurer monthly
Every town, or city clerk, or clerk's deputy, shall at the end of each month pay all license fees received and not before paid, to the county treasurer and, at the same time, report, in writing, to the county auditor the licenses issued during the month and for which the license fees so deposited with the county treasurer were paid. The report shall be in the form prescribed and furnished by the several county auditors.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1973, c. 123, art. 5, § 7; Laws 1986, c. 444.
347.13. Fees, dog license fund; disposal, accounting
The license fees so paid to the county treasurer shall be kept in a separate account, which shall be known as the dog license fund and shall be appropriated and disbursed for the purposes and in the manner herein set forth.
Expenses necessarily incurred by the county in purchasing and providing books, forms, and other supplies required in the administering of the dog license law shall be paid out of the dog license fund. The amount remaining thereafter in the fund shall be available for and may be used as necessary for paying claims allowed by the county to the owners of domestic animals on account of damages done by dogs during the license year for which the fees were paid. Any surplus in excess of $1,000 which may remain from the license fees of any license year shall, on March 1 of the succeeding year, belong and be credited to and paid by the county treasurer to the towns and cities of the county for their use in the proportion in which the towns and cities shall have contributed and paid to the fund out of which the surplus arises. It shall be used as the governing body of the town or city shall determine. When any county operating under the provisions of sections 347.08 to 347.21 shall discontinue its dog licenses and livestock indemnity fund, any money remaining shall be distributed among the various towns in proportion to license money paid in.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1973, c. 123, art. 5, § 7.
Subdivision 1. Seizure; impoundment; presumption. Any person may seize, impound, or restrain any unlicensed dog which the person may find running at large. The fact that a dog is without a license attached to a collar shall be presumptive evidence that the dog is unlicensed. The sheriff and sheriff's deputies or other police officer shall seize, impound or restrain any dog for which no license has been issued and for which one is required. Any officer who shall seize, restrain, impound, or kill any dog found in any place without a license, as required under sections 347.09 to 347.20, upon delivery of such dog or carcass and the proper disposal of the carcass and after making a report to the town or city treasurer of the town or city in which the dog was seized or killed, showing that the dog did not have a license, shall receive therefor a payment of $2, the same to be made from any funds in the town or city treasury not otherwise appropriated.
The county auditor shall reimburse the town for any expense incurred under section 347.10 and shall charge such expense to the dog license fund.
Subd. 2. Prohibition; enforcement. It is unlawful for a person to harbor or permit to remain about the person's premises a dog for which no license exists and for which one is required. Any person who has seized or impounded a dog with or without license under this section shall deliver the dog to the humane officer of the town or city, if a humane officer exists; or, if there is not a humane officer, to the town or city peace officer. The officer to whom the dog is delivered shall, without delay, notify the owner, personally or through the United States mail, if the owner is known to the officer or can be ascertained with reasonable effort. If, after five regular business days of the impounding agency, the owner does not claim the dog, the officer may dispose of the dog in a proper and humane manner. For the purpose of this section, "regular business day" means a day during which the establishment having custody of the dog is open to the public at least four consecutive hours between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Subd. 3. Penalties. Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of sections 347.08 to 347.21 shall be liable to a penalty of not less than $5 nor more than $50 for such violation.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1973, c. 123, art. 5, § 7; Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 2005, c. 10, art. 2, § 4, subd. 2; Laws 2006, c. 223, § 1.
347.15. Persons damaged, claims filed
Subdivision 1. Presentation and investigation. The owner of any domestic animals, including poultry and game birds, attacked, chased, worried, injured, or killed by a dog or dogs may, within ten days after the owner shall have knowledge or notice thereof, file a written claim for damages with the clerk of the town or city in which the damage occurred. The form of such claim may be prescribed by the county auditor. Upon presentation of such claim the supervisors of the town, the board of trustees of the statutory city, or the council of the city, or a committee appointed for that purpose by the supervisors, the board of trustees or the council, shall promptly investigate the claim and may subpoena witnesses, administer oaths, and take testimony relative thereto and shall, within 30 days after the filing of the claim, make, certify, and return to the county auditor the claim, a report of the investigation, the testimony taken, and the amount of damages, if any, suffered by the owner of the animals.
Subd. 2. Form; proof; allowances; appeal. The form of the report and certification shall be prescribed by the county auditor and shall be subscribed by the supervisors, board, or committee making the same. The county auditor shall lay before the county board, at its first meeting following the receipt of the claim, all claims so filed and reported and the same shall be acted upon and determined by the county board as other claims are determined and acted upon, and the county board shall equalize the values and claims between and within the various towns of the county. The amount of damages filed and reported to the county auditor shall be prima facie proof of the actual damages sustained, but evidence may be taken before the county board relative to the claims as in other cases, and appeals from the action of the county board shall lie as in other cases. On appeal from the action of the county board, the trial shall be by the court without a jury.
Subd. 3. Payment. Such claims shall be solely against the dog license fund and shall create no other liability on the part of the county.
Subd. 4. Limitation of amount. The amount allowed by the county board upon any such claim shall in no case exceed $100 for each horse, mule, or bovine; $15 for each sheep or goat; $30 for each swine; or $3 for each fowl. When the claimant shall furnish conclusive evidence as to the ownership of the dog or dogs doing the damage the claimant shall be paid the full amount of the claim submitted.
Subd. 5. Distribution. Distribution of the dog license fund among claimants for loss of animals by dogs within the license year shall be made at the close of the license year.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1973, c. 123, art. 5, § 7.
347.16. Claims, hearings, notice
No claim shall be allowed by the county board at less than the amount so certified and reported, unless the claimant shall first be notified that such action is contemplated and shall have been given a reasonable opportunity to be heard and to offer further evidence in support of the claim.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
347.17. Any person may kill dogs in certain cases
Any person may kill any dog that the person knows is affected with the disease known as hydrophobia, or that may suddenly attack while the person is peacefully walking or riding and while being out of the enclosure of its owner or keeper, and may kill any dog found killing, wounding, or worrying any horses, cattle, sheep, lambs, or other domestic animals.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
347.18. Tags; restrictions, prohibitions
No person, except the owner or the owner's authorized agent, shall remove any license tag from a dog collar or remove any collar with a license attached thereto from any dog. No person shall keep or harbor a dog wearing a fictitious, altered, or invalid license tag, or a license tag not issued in connection with the licensing or keeping of the dog wearing the same. No license or license tag issued for one dog shall be transferable to another dog.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1986, c. 444.
347.19. Failure to obtain license
Every town or city clerk shall notify the county attorney of the clerk's county of every refusal or failure of an owner to obtain a license for keeping a dog, and it shall be the duty of the county attorney to institute proceedings against such owner and against every owner within the county who has violated any of the provisions of sections 347.08 to 347.21.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1973, c. 123, art. 5, § 7; Laws 1986, c. 444.
Dogs brought into this state temporarily for a period not to exceed 30 days shall be exempt from the provisions of sections 347.08 to 347.21.
HISTORICAL AND STATUTORY NOTES
2004 Main Volume
Derivation:
Sections 347.08 to 347.21 are supplemental to all other laws relating to dogs not expressly referred to therein, and to all laws relating to taxation of dogs as personal property, and shall not be construed as to modify, repeal, or in anywise affect any part or provision of any such laws not expressly repealed therein or to prevent municipalities from prohibiting, licensing, or regulating the running at large of dogs within their respective limits by law or ordinance now or hereafter provided.
HISTORICAL AND STATUTORY NOTES
2004 Main Volume
Derivation:
If a dog, without provocation, attacks or injures any person who is acting peaceably in any place where the person may lawfully be, the owner of the dog is liable in damages to the person so attacked or injured to the full amount of the injury sustained. The term "owner" includes any person harboring or keeping a dog but the owner shall be primarily liable. The term "dog" includes both male and female of the canine species.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1951, c. 315, § 1. Amended by Laws 1980, c. 347, § 1; Laws 1986, c. 444.
347.23. Renumbered 343.40 in St.1982
Subdivision 1. Terms. For the purpose of sections 347.31 to 347.40 the terms defined in this section have the meanings given to them.
Subd. 2. Kennel. "Kennel" means any place, building, tract of land, abode, or vehicle wherein or whereupon dogs or cats are kept, congregated, or confined, if the dogs or cats were obtained from municipalities, pounds, auctions, or by advertising for unwanted dogs or cats, or dogs or cats strayed, abandoned, or stolen. "Kennel" does not include a pound owned and operated by any political subdivision of the state or a person's home where dogs or cats are kept as pets.
Subd. 3. Premises. "Premises" means any building, structure, shelter, or land wherein or whereon dogs or cats are kept or confined.
Subd. 4. Dealer. "Dealer" means a public or private agency, person, society, or corporation that is licensed or is required to be licensed as a "Class B dealer" under United States Code, title 7, sections 2131 to 2155, as amended through December 31, 1986, who sells or transfers dogs or cats to institutions or to other dealers who sell or transfer to institutions.
Subd. 5. Institution. "Institution" means a school or college of agriculture, veterinary medicine, medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, or other educational or scientific organization properly concerned with the investigation of living organisms, instruction concerning the structure or functions of living organisms, or the cause, prevention, control, or cure of diseases or abnormal conditions of human beings or animals.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1967, c. 695, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 1968. Amended by Laws 1969, c. 363, § 1, eff. May 13, 1969; Laws 1987, c. 380, art. 3, § 2; Laws 1988, c. 537, § 1.
347.32. License for kennel or dealer
No person, firm, or corporation shall establish, maintain, conduct, or operate a kennel or operate as a dealer within this state without first obtaining a license therefor from the board of animal health. The license shall be issued for a term of one year.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1967, c. 695, § 2, eff. Jan. 1, 1968. Amended by Laws 1980, c. 467, § 37; Laws 1987, c. 380, art. 3, § 3.
347.33. Licensing procedures; inspections; administration
Subdivision 1. Application. The application for a license to operate and maintain a kennel or operate as a dealer shall be made to the board of animal health, in the manner prescribed by rules of the board.
Subd. 2. Contents. The application for a license shall be in writing and on a form as the board may by rule provide, and shall set forth:
(1) The full name and address of the applicant or applicants, or names and addresses of the partners if the applicant is a partnership, or the names and addresses of the officers if the applicant is a corporation, and the address of the corporation.
(2) The legal description or, in its place, the address and specific location of the site, lot, field, or tract of land upon which it is proposed to operate and maintain a kennel.
Subd. 3. Fees; issuance of license. The annual license fee is $15 for each kennel and $100 for each dealer licensed. All license fees collected by the board shall be deposited in the state treasury and credited to the general fund.
When application is made to the board, complete in the manner set forth by rule to be issued by the board, and upon payment of the license fee, the license shall be issued by the board if, after inspection of the premises, the board determines that the kennel or dealer complies with sections 347.31 to 347.40 and the rules promulgated pursuant to those sections.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1967, c. 695, § 3, eff. Jan. 1, 1968. Amended by Laws 1975, c. 204, § 84; Laws 1980, c. 467, § 38; Laws 1987, c. 380, art. 3, § 4.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to establish, maintain, conduct, carry on, or operate a kennel or operate as a dealer without first having received a license to maintain, conduct, carry on, and operate a kennel, or operate as a dealer, duly signed and executed in the name of the state of Minnesota and signed by the board of animal health. The license shall be conspicuously displayed upon the licensed premises.
All licenses issued under sections 347.31 to 347.40 shall be personal to the licensee and be nontransferable.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1967, c. 695, § 4, eff. Jan. 1, 1968. Amended by Laws 1980, c. 467, § 39; Laws 1987, c. 380, art. 3, § 5.
347.35. Board of animal health authorized to promulgate rules
The board of animal health shall promulgate rules as it deems necessary for the operation of kennels and dealers and the enforcement of sections 347.31 to 347.40 which shall be in addition to rules established herein. The rules adopted by the board must provide for the cost recovery for the activities of the board with respect to licensing, inspection, and enforcement of civil penalties and must provide for cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture animal plant health inspection service program and for reference of complaints to local enforcement authorities. Rules must include, but are not limited to, requirements governing the care of dogs and cats, minimum conditions, and maintenance of quarters and kennels, the humane treatment of dogs and cats while in the kennels, maintenance of detailed records showing the person from whom any dog or cat aged over three months has been received, and in the case of a dealer, including address, driver's license number or social security number, and to whom it has been transferred, and preservation of the records for a minimum period of two years. The dealer is responsible for making a reasonable attempt to ensure the accuracy of the data collected.
A payment from a dealer to a person from whom the dealer buys dogs or cats must be by check, payable only to that person. The check must contain the dealer's name and address.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1967, c. 695, § 5, eff. Jan. 1, 1968. Amended by Laws 1980, c. 467, § 40; Laws 1987, c. 380, art. 3, § 6.
All advertising by any person, firm, or corporation licensed hereunder shall include the number of the current license issued to such licensee.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1967, c. 695, § 6, eff. Jan. 1, 1968.
347.37. Public access; notice; inspection; enforcement
The board of animal health shall cause to be inspected from time to time all kennels and dealers licensed hereunder and all records required by sections 347.31 to 347.40 to be kept by the licensees.
Any duly authorized agent of the board, any sheriff, or sheriff's deputy, or police officer, or humane agent appointed pursuant to section 343.01 is granted the power and the authority to enter upon the premises of any kennel or dealer at any time during the daylight hours for the purposes herein set forth, and for the purposes of inspecting the compliance with the provisions of sections 346.55, 347.31 to 347.40 and the rules issued pursuant thereto, and for the purposes of enforcing sections 346.55, or 347.31 to 347.40; except that humane agents shall not enter upon the premises of a licensed veterinarian acting as a kennel.
Each dealer shall post a conspicuous notice in a format no less than 24 by 36 inches and easily readable by the general public, that states: (1) that the person is a licensed dealer in dogs and cats; (2) that dogs and cats left with the dealer may be used for research purposes; and (3) the hours the dealer is open to the public. The notice must be placed in at least two locations on the premises, one of which must be on or near the exterior mail delivery point and one of which must be at the regularly used point of exchange of dogs and cats. A person may view dogs and cats in the custody of a dealer during the time the premises is open to the public. Dealers are required to be open to the public on a regular basis at least four hours between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on at least four of the seven days of each week including at least one Saturday or Sunday. Any advertisement placed by a dealer seeking dogs or cats must inform the public that dogs and cats brought to the dealer may be used for research purposes.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1967, c. 695, § 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1968. Amended by Laws 1980, c. 467, § 41; Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 1987, c. 380, art. 3, § 7; Laws 1987, c. 394, § 11, eff. June 4, 1987; Laws 1988, c. 537, § 2.
The board of animal health may as hereinafter set forth revoke or suspend the license of any person, firm, or corporation, for violation of sections 346.55 and 347.31 to 347.40 or the rules issued pursuant to sections 347.31 to 347.40.
Upon written complaint made to the board by any person, firm, or corporation alleging any violation of sections 347.31 to 347.40 or any rules pursuant thereto by any licensee, the board may cause an investigation to be made upon matters related in said complaint.
Thereupon the board shall in its discretion either dismiss the complaint or require the kennel or dealer against whom the complaint is made to correct the conditions or violations complained of within ten days after receipt of written notice of the same. If upon termination of the ten day period the licensee has failed to correct or to remedy the violation or violations of sections 346.55 or 347.31 to 347.40 or any rules pursuant thereto, or if the board considers it appropriate under the circumstances the board shall, upon a minimum of 30 days' notice to the licensee, conduct a hearing for the purpose of determining whether the license to operate a kennel or as a dealer should be revoked or temporarily suspended. If after notice and hearing the board finds that any provision of sections 346.55 or 347.31 to 347.40 has been violated by the licensee or any rule issued by the board has been violated by the licensee, the board may revoke and suspend the license. The possession or transfer of a dog or cat by a dealer to an institution, without the permission of the owner, failure of a dealer or kennel to keep accurate data as required in section 347.35, or failure of a dealer or kennel to permit access to its premises as required in section 347.37, is grounds for license revocation. The licensee whose license is revoked or suspended may within 20 days after the board's decision appeal to the district court. The district court shall upon 20 days' notice to the board hear the appeal within 45 days after the filing of the appeal. On the hearing of the appeal the court shall review the decision of the board in a manner as though reviewed by certiorari, except that new or additional evidence may be taken, if in the opinion of the court additional evidence is necessary or proper to the disposition of the case.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1967, c. 695, § 8, eff. Jan. 1, 1968. Amended by Laws 1980, c. 467, § 42; Laws 1987, c. 380, art. 3, § 8.
Violation of any provision of sections 347.31 to 347.40 or of any rule of the board of animal health issued pursuant to sections 347.31 to 347.40, or operation of a kennel or as a dealer without a license, or operation of a kennel or as a dealer after revocation of a license or during a period of suspension, shall constitute a misdemeanor.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1967, c. 695, § 9, eff. Jan. 1, 1968. Amended by Laws 1980, c. 467, § 43; Laws 1987, c. 380, art. 3, § 9.
Sections 347.31 to 347.40 shall in no way apply to any veterinarian licensed to practice in the state of Minnesota who keeps, congregates, or confines dogs or cats in the normal pursuit of the practice of veterinary medicine.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1967, c. 695, § 11, eff. Jan. 1, 1968. Amended by Laws 1969, c. 363, § 2, eff. May 13, 1969; Laws 1987, c. 380, art. 3, § 10.
Subdivision 1. Terms. For the purpose of sections 347.50 to 347.56, the terms defined in this section have the meanings given them.
Subd. 2. Dangerous dog. “Dangerous dog” means any dog that has:
(1) without provocation, inflicted substantial bodily harm on a human being on public or private property;
(2) killed a domestic animal without provocation while off the owner's property; or
(3) been found to be potentially dangerous, and after the owner has notice that the dog is potentially dangerous, the dog aggressively bites, attacks, or endangers the safety of humans or domestic animals.
Subd. 3. Potentially dangerous dog. “Potentially dangerous dog” means any dog that:
(1) when unprovoked, inflicts bites on a human or domestic animal on public or private property;
(2) when unprovoked, chases or approaches a person, including a person on a bicycle, upon the streets, sidewalks, or any public or private property, other than the dog owner's property, in an apparent attitude of attack; or
(3) has a known propensity, tendency, or disposition to attack unprovoked, causing injury or otherwise threatening the safety of humans or domestic animals.
Subd. 4. Proper enclosure. “Proper enclosure” means securely confined indoors or in a securely enclosed and locked pen or structure suitable to prevent the animal from escaping and providing protection from the elements for the dog. A proper enclosure does not include a porch, patio, or any part of a house, garage, or other structure that would allow the dog to exit of its own volition, or any house or structure in which windows are open or in which door or window screens are the only obstacles that prevent the dog from exiting.
Subd. 5. Owner. “Owner” means any person, firm, corporation, organization, or department possessing, harboring, keeping, having an interest in, or having care, custody, or control of a dog.
Subd. 6. Substantial bodily harm. “Substantial bodily harm” has the meaning given it under section 609.02, subdivision 7a.
Subd. 6a. Great bodily harm. “Great bodily harm” has the meaning given it under section 609.02, subdivision 8.
Subd. 7. Animal control authority. “Animal control authority” means an agency of the state, county, municipality, or other governmental subdivision of the state which is responsible for animal control operations in its jurisdiction.
Subd. 8. Provocation. “Provocation” means an act that an adult could reasonably expect may cause a dog to attack or bite.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1988, c. 711, § 1. Amended by Laws 1989, c. 37, §§ 3 to 5, eff. April 18, 1989; Laws 1994, c. 550, § 1; Laws 2001, 1st Sp., c. 8, art. 8, §§ 14, 15; Laws 2008, c. 325, § 2, eff. Aug. 1, 2008.
347.51. Dangerous dogs; registration
Subdivision 1. Requirement. No person may own a dangerous dog in this state unless the dog is registered as provided in this section.
Subd. 2. Registration. An animal control authority shall issue a certificate of registration to the owner of a dangerous dog if the owner presents sufficient evidence that:
(1) a proper enclosure exists for the dangerous dog and a posting on the premises with a clearly visible warning sign that there is a dangerous dog on the property, including a warning symbol to inform children;
(2) a surety bond issued by a surety company authorized to conduct business in this state in a form acceptable to the animal control authority in the sum of at least $300,000, payable to any person injured by the dangerous dog, or a policy of liability insurance issued by an insurance company authorized to conduct business in this state in the amount of at least $300,000, insuring the owner for any personal injuries inflicted by the dangerous dog;
(3) the owner has paid an annual fee of not more than $500, in addition to any regular dog licensing fees, to obtain a certificate of registration for a dangerous dog under this section; and
(4) the owner has had microchip identification implanted in the dangerous dog as required under section 347.515.
Subd. 2a. Warning symbol. If an animal control authority issues a certificate of registration to the owner of a dangerous dog pursuant to subdivision 2, the animal control authority must provide, for posting on the owner's property, a copy of a warning symbol to inform children that there is a dangerous dog on the property. The warning symbol must be the uniform symbol provided by the commissioner of public safety. The commissioner shall provide the number of copies of the warning symbol requested by the animal control authority and shall charge the animal control authority the actual cost of the warning symbols received. The animal control authority may charge the registrant a reasonable fee to cover its administrative costs and the cost of the warning symbol.
Subd. 3. Fee. The animal control authority may charge the owner an annual fee, in addition to any regular dog licensing fees, to obtain a certificate of registration for a dangerous dog under this section.
Subd. 3a. Dangerous dog designation review. Beginning six months after a dog is declared a dangerous dog, an owner may request annually that the animal control authority review the designation. The owner must provide evidence that the dog's behavior has changed due to the dog's age, neutering, environment, completion of obedience training that includes modification of aggressive behavior, or other factors. If the animal control authority finds sufficient evidence that the dog's behavior has changed, the authority may rescind the dangerous dog designation.
Subd. 4. Law enforcement; exemption. The provisions of this section do not apply to dangerous dogs used by law enforcement officials for police work.
Subd. 5. Exemption. Dogs may not be declared dangerous if the threat, injury, or damage was sustained by a person:
(1) who was committing, at the time, a willful trespass or other tort upon the premises occupied by the owner of the dog;
(2) who was provoking, tormenting, abusing, or assaulting the dog or who can be shown to have repeatedly, in the past, provoked, tormented, abused, or assaulted the dog; or
(3) who was committing or attempting to commit a crime.
Subd. 6. Repealed by Laws 2001, 1st Sp., c. 8, art. 8, § 30, eff. Aug. 1, 2001
Subd. 7. Tag. A dangerous dog registered under this section must have a standardized, easily identifiable tag identifying the dog as dangerous and containing the uniform dangerous dog symbol, affixed to the dog's collar at all times.
Subd. 8. Local ordinances. A statutory or home rule charter city, or a county, may not adopt an ordinance regulating dangerous or potentially dangerous dogs based solely on the specific breed of the dog. Ordinances inconsistent with this subdivision are void.
Subd. 9. Contracted services. An animal control authority may contract with another political subdivision or other person to provide the services required under sections 347.50 to 347. 565. Notwithstanding any contract entered into under this subdivision, all fees collected under sections 347.50 to 347.54 shall be paid to the animal control authority and all certificates of registration must be issued in the name of the animal control authority.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1988, c. 711, § 2. Amended by Laws 1989, c. 37, §§ 6 to 10, eff. April 18, 1989; Laws 1991, c. 195, § 1; Laws 1994, c. 550, § 2; Laws 1997, c. 187, art. 3, § 32, eff. June 30, 1997; Laws 2001, 1st Sp., c. 8, art. 8, §§ 16 to 18; Laws 2008, c. 325, §§ 3 to 7, eff. Aug. 1, 2008.
347.515. Microchip identification
The owner of a dangerous or potentially dangerous dog must have a microchip implanted in the dog for identification, and the name of the microchip manufacturer and identification number of the microchip must be provided to the animal control authority. If the microchip is not implanted by the owner, it may be implanted by the animal control authority. In either case, all costs related to purchase and implantation of the microchip must be borne by the dog's owner.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 2001, 1st Sp., c. 8, art. 8, § 19.
347.52. Dangerous dogs; requirements
(a) An owner of a dangerous dog shall keep the dog, while on the owner's property, in a proper enclosure. If the dog is outside the proper enclosure, the dog must be muzzled and restrained by a substantial chain or leash and under the physical restraint of a responsible person. The muzzle must be made in a manner that will prevent the dog from biting any person or animal but that will not cause injury to the dog or interfere with its vision or respiration.
(b) An owner of a dangerous dog must renew the registration of the dog annually until the dog is deceased. If the dog is removed from the jurisdiction, it must be registered as a dangerous dog in its new jurisdiction.
(c) An owner of a dangerous dog must notify the animal control authority in writing of the death of the dog or its transfer to a new location where the dog will reside within 30 days of the death or transfer, and must, if requested by the animal control authority, execute an affidavit under oath setting forth either the circumstances of the dog's death and disposition or the complete name, address, and telephone number of the person to whom the dog has been transferred or the address where the dog has been relocated.
(d) An animal control authority shall require a dangerous dog to be sterilized at the owner's expense. If the owner does not have the animal sterilized within 30 days, the animal control authority shall seize the dog and have it sterilized at the owner's expense.
(e) A person who owns a dangerous dog and who rents property from another where the dog will reside must disclose to the property owner prior to entering the lease agreement and at the time of any lease renewal that the person owns a dangerous dog that will reside at the property.
(f) A person who transfers ownership of a dangerous dog must notify the new owner that the animal control authority has identified the dog as dangerous. The current owner must also notify the animal control authority in writing of the transfer of ownership and provide the animal control authority with the new owner's name, address, and telephone number.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1988, c. 711, § 3. Amended by Laws 2001, 1st Sp., c. 8, art. 8, § 20; Laws 2008, c. 325, § 8, eff. Aug. 1, 2008.
347.53. Potentially dangerous dogs
Any statutory or home rule charter city, or any county, may regulate potentially dangerous and dangerous dogs. Except as provided in section 347.51, subdivision 8, nothing in sections 347.50 to 347.565 limits any restrictions that the local jurisdictions may place on owners of potentially dangerous or dangerous dogs.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1988, c. 711, § 4. Amended by Laws 1989, c. 37, § 11, eff. April 18, 1989; Laws 2008, c. 325, § 9, eff. Aug. 1, 2008.
Subdivision 1. Seizure.
(a) The animal control authority having jurisdiction shall immediately seize any dangerous dog if:
(1) after 14 days after the owner has notice that the dog is dangerous, the dog is not validly registered under section 347.51;
(2) after 14 days after the owner has notice that the dog is dangerous, the owner does not secure the proper liability insurance or surety coverage as required under section 347.51, subdivision 2;
(3) the dog is not maintained in the proper enclosure;
(4) the dog is outside the proper enclosure and not under physical restraint of a responsible person as required under section 347.52; or
(5) the dog is not sterilized within 30 days, pursuant to section 347.52, paragraph (d).
(b) If an owner of a dog is convicted of a crime for which the dog was originally seized, the court may order that the dog be confiscated and destroyed in a proper and humane manner, and that the owner pay the costs incurred in confiscating, confining, and destroying the dog.
Subd. 2. Reclaimed. A dangerous dog seized under subdivision 1 may be reclaimed by the owner of the dog upon payment of impounding and boarding fees, and presenting proof to the appropriate animal control authority that the requirements of sections 347.51 and 347.52 will be met. A dog not reclaimed under this subdivision within seven days may be disposed of in a manner permitted by law, and the owner is liable to the animal control authority for costs incurred in confining and disposing of the dog.
Subd. 3. Subsequent offenses; seizure. If a person has been convicted of a misdemeanor for violating a provision of section 347.51, 347.515, or 347.52, and the person is charged with a subsequent violation relating to the same dog, the dog must be seized by the animal control authority having jurisdiction. If the owner is convicted of the crime for which the dog was seized, the court shall order that the dog be destroyed in a proper and humane manner and the owner pay the cost of confining and destroying the animal. If the owner is not convicted and the dog is not reclaimed by the owner within seven days after the owner has been notified that the dog may be reclaimed, the dog may be disposed of in a manner permitted by law.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1988, c. 711, § 5. Amended by Laws 1989, c. 37, § 12, eff. April 18, 1989; Laws 2008, c. 325, §§ 10, 11, eff. Aug. 1, 2008; Laws 2012, c. 244, art. 1, §§ 74, 75, eff. July 1, 2012.
347.541. Disposition of seized animals
Subdivision 1. Hearing. The owner of any dog declared dangerous has the right to a hearing by an impartial hearing officer.
Subd. 2. Security. A person claiming an interest in a seized dog may prevent disposition of the dog by posting security in an amount sufficient to provide for the dog's actual cost of care and keeping. The security must be posted within seven days of the seizure inclusive of the date of the seizure.
Subd. 3. Notice. The authority declaring the dog dangerous shall give notice of this section by delivering or mailing it to the owner of the dog, or by posting a copy of it at the place where the dog is kept, or by delivering it to a person residing on the property, and telephoning, if possible. The notice must include:
(1) a description of the seized dog; the authority for and purpose of the dangerous dog declaration and seizure; the time, place, and circumstances under which the dog was declared dangerous; and the telephone number and contact person where the dog is kept;
(2) a statement that the owner of the dog may request a hearing concerning the dangerous dog declaration and, if applicable, prior potentially dangerous dog declarations for the dog, and that failure to do so within 14 days of the date of the notice will terminate the owner's right to a hearing under this section;
(3) a statement that if an appeal request is made within 14 days of the notice, the owner must immediately comply with the requirements of section 347.52, paragraphs (a) and (c), and until such time as the hearing officer issues an opinion;
(4) a statement that if the hearing officer affirms the dangerous dog declaration, the owner will have 14 days from receipt of that decision to comply with all other requirements of sections 347.51, 347.515, and 347.52;
(5) a form to request a hearing under this subdivision; and
(6) a statement that all actual costs of the care, keeping, and disposition of the dog are the responsibility of the person claiming an interest in the dog, except to the extent that a court or hearing officer finds that the seizure or impoundment was not substantially justified by law.
Subd. 4. Right to hearing. Any hearing must be held within 14 days of the request to determine the validity of the dangerous dog declaration. The hearing officer must be an impartial employee of the local government or an impartial person retained by the local government to conduct the hearing. In the event that the dangerous dog declaration is upheld by the hearing officer, actual expenses of the hearing up to a maximum of $1,000 will be the responsibility of the dog's owner. The hearing officer shall issue a decision on the matter within ten days after the hearing. The decision must be delivered to the dog's owner by hand delivery or registered mail as soon as practical and a copy must be provided to the animal control authority.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 2008, c. 325, § 12, eff. Aug. 1, 2008.
347.542. Restrictions
Subdivision 1. Dog ownership prohibited. Except as provided in subdivision 3, no person may own a dog if the person has:
(1) been convicted of a third or subsequent violation of section 347.51, 347.515, or 347.52;
(2) been convicted of a violation under section 609.205, clause (4);
(3) been convicted of a gross misdemeanor under section 609.226, subdivision 1;
(4) been convicted of a violation under section 609.226, subdivision 2; or
(5) had a dog ordered destroyed under section 347.56 and been convicted of one or more violations of section 347.51, 347.515, 347.52, or 609.226, subdivision 2.
Subd. 2. Household members. If any member of a household is prohibited from owning a dog in subdivision 1, unless specifically approved with or without restrictions by an animal control authority, no person in the household is permitted to own a dog.
Subd. 3. Dog ownership prohibition review. Beginning three years after a conviction under subdivision 1 that prohibits a person from owning a dog, and annually thereafter, the person may request that the animal control authority review the prohibition. The animal control authority may consider such facts as the seriousness of the violation or violations that led to the prohibition, any criminal convictions, or other facts that the animal control authority deems appropriate. The animal control authority may rescind the prohibition entirely or rescind it with limitations. The animal control authority also may establish conditions a person must meet before the prohibition is rescinded, including, but not limited to, successfully completing dog training or dog handling courses. If the animal control authority rescinds a person's prohibition and the person subsequently fails to comply with any limitations imposed by the animal control authority or the person is convicted of any animal violation involving unprovoked bites or dog attacks, the animal control authority may permanently prohibit the person from owning a dog in this state.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 2008, c. 325, § 13, eff. Aug. 1, 2008. Amended by Laws 2009, c. 86, art. 1, § 62, eff. Aug. 1, 2009.
(a) A person who violates a provision of section 347.51, 347.515, or 347.52 is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(b) It is a misdemeanor to remove a microchip from a dangerous or potentially dangerous dog, to fail to renew the registration of a dangerous dog, to fail to account for a dangerous dog's death or change of location where the dog will reside, to sign a false affidavit with respect to a dangerous dog's death or change of location where the dog will reside, or to fail to disclose ownership of a dangerous dog to a property owner from whom the person rents property.
(c) A person who is convicted of a second or subsequent violation of paragraph (a) or (b) is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
(d) An owner who violates section 347.542, subdivision 1, is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
(e) Any household member who knowingly violates section 347.542, subdivision 2, is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1988, c. 711, § 7, eff. Aug. 1, 1988. Amended by Laws 2001, 1st Sp., c. 8, art. 8, § 21; Laws 2008, c. 325, § 14, eff. Aug. 1, 2008.
347.56. Destruction of dog in certain circumstances
Subdivision 1. Circumstances. Notwithstanding sections 347.51 to 347.55, a dog may be destroyed in a proper and humane manner by the animal control authority if the dog:
(1) inflicted substantial or great bodily harm on a human on public or private property without provocation;
(2) inflicted multiple bites on a human on public or private property without provocation;
(3) bit multiple human victims on public or private property in the same attack without provocation; or
(4) bit a human on public or private property without provocation in an attack where more than one dog participated in the attack.
Subd. 2. Hearing. The animal control authority may not destroy the dog until the dog owner has had the opportunity for a hearing before an impartial decision maker. The definitions in section 347.50 and the exemptions under section 347.51, subdivision 5, apply to this section.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 2001, 1st Sp., c. 8, art. 8, § 22. Amended by Laws 2008, c. 325, § 15, eff. Aug. 1, 2008.
347.565. Applicability
Sections 347.50 to 347.56 must be enforced by animal control authorities or law enforcement agencies, whether or not these sections have been adopted into local ordinance.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 2008, c. 325, § 16, eff. Aug. 1, 2008.
Subdivision 1. Terms. The definitions in this section apply to sections 347.57 to 347.64.
Subd. 2. Animal. “Animal” means a dog or a cat.
Subd. 3. Board. “Board” means the Board of Animal Health.
Subd. 4. Cat. “Cat” means a mammal that is wholly or in part of the species Felis domesticus. An adult cat is a cat 28 weeks of age or older. A kitten is a cat under 28 weeks of age.
Subd. 5. Commercial breeder. “Commercial breeder” means a person who possesses or has an ownership interest in animals and is engaged in the business of breeding animals for sale or for exchange in return for consideration, and who possesses ten or more adult intact animals and whose animals produce more than five total litters of puppies or kittens per year.
Subd. 6. Confinement area. “Confinement area” means a structure used or designed for use to restrict an animal to a limited amount of space, such as a room, pen, cage, kennel, compartment, crate, or hutch.
Subd. 7. Dog. “Dog” means a mammal that is wholly or in part of the species Canis familiaris. An adult dog is a dog 28 weeks of age or older. A puppy is a dog under 28 weeks of age.
Subd. 8. Facility. “Facility” means the place used by a commercial breeder for breeding animals, and includes all buildings, property, confinement areas, and vehicles.
Subd. 9. Local animal control authority. “Local animal control authority” means an agency of the state, county, municipality, or other political subdivision of the state that is responsible for animal control operations in its jurisdiction.
Subd. 10. Person. “Person” means a natural person, firm, partnership, corporation, or association, however organized.
Subd. 11. Possess. “Possess” means to have custody of or have control over.
Subd. 12. Veterinarian. “Veterinarian” means a veterinarian in good standing and licensed in the state of Minnesota.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art. 13, § 32, eff. July 1, 2014.
347.58. Licensing and inspections
Subdivision 1. Licensing. (a) The board may grant an operating license to a commercial breeder and must enforce sections 347.58 to 347.64.
(b) Beginning July 1, 2015, a commercial breeder must obtain an annual license for each facility it owns or operates. More than one building on the same premises is considered one facility. The initial prelicense inspection fee and the annual license fee is $10 per adult intact animal, but each fee must not exceed $250.
(c) The board must perform an announced initial prelicense inspection within 60 days from the date of receiving a license application. A commercial breeder is not in violation of this section if the commercial breeder has filed a completed license application with the board and the board has not performed the initial prelicense inspection. The board must inspect a commercial breeder's facility before an initial license is issued. The initial prelicense inspection fee must be included with the license application. Upon completion of the inspection, the inspector must provide the commercial breeder an inspection certificate signed by the inspector in a format approved by the board.
(d) The license application must indicate if a commercial breeder operates under more than one name from a single location or has an ownership interest in any other facility. License holders must keep separate records for each business name.
(e) The application must include a statement that includes the following information:
(1) whether any license held by an applicant under this section or under any other federal, state, county, or local law, ordinance, or other regulation relating to breeding cats or dogs was ever suspended, revoked, or denied; and
(2) whether the applicant was ever convicted of animal cruelty.
(f) An application from a partnership, corporation, or limited liability company must include the name and address of all partners, directors, officers, or members and must include a notation of any partners, directors, officers, members, or others authorized to represent the partnership, corporation, or limited liability company.
(g) A nonresident applicant must consent to adjudication of any violation under the laws of the state of Minnesota and in Minnesota courts.
(h) A license issued under this section is not transferable.
(i) A license holder must apply for license renewal annually by submitting a renewal application on a form approved by the board. The license renewal application must be postmarked or submitted electronically in a method approved by the board by July 1 of each year. The board may assess a late renewal penalty of up to 50 percent of the license fee. If a license is not renewed by August 1, the board may require the commercial breeder to reapply for an initial license.
(j) A commercial breeder must submit to the board an annual report by July 1 on a form prepared by the board. The form must include the current number of cats and dogs at the facility on the date of the report, the number of animals during the preceding year that were sold, traded, bartered, leased, brokered, given away, euthanized, or deceased from other causes, and any other information required by the board.
(k) If a commercial breeder is required to be licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture, United States Department of Agriculture inspection reports and records relating to animal care plans and veterinary care must be made available during an inspection, upon request.
(l) A commercial breeder must prominently display the commercial breeder's license at each facility.
(m) A commercial breeder's state license number or a symbol approved by the board must be included in all of the commercial breeder's advertisements or promotions that pertain to animals being sold or traded including, but not limited to, all newspapers, Internet, radio, or flyers.
(n) A commercial breeder must notify the board by certified mail or electronically in a method approved by the board within ten days of any change in address, name, management, or substantial control and ownership of the business or operation.
(o) The board must refuse to issue an initial license when a commercial breeder:
(1) is in violation of section 343.21; 343.24; 343.27; 343.28; 343.31; 343.37; 346.37; 346.38; 346.39; 346.44; or 346.155;
(2) has failed to meet any of the requirements of this section and section 347.59;
(3) is in violation of a local ordinance regarding breeders;
(4) has been convicted, other than a petty misdemeanor conviction, of cruelty to animals under Minnesota law or a substantially similar animal cruelty law of another jurisdiction;
(5) has had a substantially similar license denied, revoked, or suspended by another federal or state authority within the last five years; or
(6) has falsified any material information requested by the board.
(p) A person who has been an officer, agent, direct family member, or employee of a commercial breeder whose license was revoked or suspended and who was responsible for or participated in the violation that was a basis for the revocation or suspension may not be licensed while the revocation or suspension is in effect.
Subd. 2. Inspections. (a) The board must inspect each licensed facility at least annually. The inspection must be with the commercial breeder or an agent of the commercial breeder present. The inspector must submit an inspection report to the board within ten days of each inspection on a form prepared by the board. The inspection report form must list separately each law, rule, regulation, and ordinance the facility is not in compliance with and what correction is required for compliance. The inspection report form must document the animal inventory on the date of the inspection.
(b) If, after the prelicense inspection, the commercial breeder has two consecutive years of inspections with no violations, the board must inspect the commercial breeder at least every two years. If the commercial breeder has any violations during an inspection or if the board has cause, the board must inspect the commercial breeder at least annually.
(c) If a license to operate is suspended, revoked, or denied, the board must be granted access to the facility during normal business hours to verify that it is not operating.
Subd. 3. Record requirements. (a) The commercial breeder must keep records on each animal at the facility that includes:
(1) the name, address, and United States Department of Agriculture license number, if applicable, from whom an animal was received; the date the commercial breeder received the animal; the date of the animal's birth; the breed, sex, color, and identifying marks of the animal; any identifying tag, tattoo, microchip, or collar number; worming treatments, vaccinations, and name of the person who administered the vaccination; medication received by the animal while in the possession of the commercial breeder; and any disease conditions diagnosed by a veterinarian; and
(2) the name and address of the person or entity to whom an animal was transferred.
(b) The commercial breeder must maintain a copy of the records required to be kept under this subdivision for two years.
Subd. 4. Veterinary protocol. (a) A commercial breeder must establish and maintain a written protocol for disease control and prevention, euthanasia, and veterinary care of animals at each facility. The initial protocol must be developed under the direction and supervision of the board. A commercial breeder must maintain a written protocol that is updated at least every 12 months and that is signed and dated by the board or by a veterinarian along with the commercial breeder. The written protocol must be available to the board upon request or at the time of inspection.
(b) An animal sold or otherwise distributed by a commercial breeder must be accompanied by a veterinary health certificate completed by a veterinarian. The certificate must be completed within 30 days prior to the sale or distribution and must indicate that the animal is current with vaccinations and has no signs of infectious or contagious diseases. The certificate accompanying an adult dog that was not spayed or neutered must indicate that the dog has no signs of infectious or contagious diseases and was tested for canine brucellosis with a test approved by the board and found to be negative.
Subd. 5. Posting of information. The board must maintain and post in a timely manner on its Web site a list of commercial breeders licensed and in good standing under this section.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art. 13, § 33, eff. July 1, 2014.
(a) A commercial breeder must comply with chapters 343 and 346.
(b) A commercial breeder must ensure that animals that are part of the commercial breeder's breeding business operations are cared for as follows:
(1) cats must not be housed in outdoor confinement areas;
(2) animals exercised in groups must be compatible and show no signs of contagious or infectious disease;
(3) females in estrus must not be housed in the same confinement area with unneutered males, except for breeding purposes;
(4) animals must be provided daily enrichment and must be provided positive physical contact with human beings and compatible animals at least twice daily unless a veterinarian determines such activities would adversely affect the health or well-being of the animal;
(5) animals must not be sold, traded, or given away before the age of eight weeks unless a veterinarian determines it would be in the best interests of the health or well-being of the animal;
(6) the commercial breeder must provide identification and tracking for each animal, which is not transferable to another animal; and
(7) the commercial breeder must provide adequate staff to maintain the facility and observe each animal daily to monitor each animal's health and well-being, and to properly care for the animals.
(c) A commercial breeder must not knowingly hire staff or independent contractors who have been convicted of cruelty to animals under the law of any jurisdiction.
(d) A commercial breeder must comply with any additional standards the board considers necessary to protect the public health and welfare of animals covered under sections 347.57 to 347.61. The standards must be established by rule.
(e) A United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) licensed breeder or dealer who is in compliance with the minimum USDA regulations governing the license holder as they relate to animal confinement areas as of the effective date of this section does not have to comply with the minimum confinement area measurements under section 346.39, subdivision 4, for existing confinement areas in each facility the breeder or dealer owns. If a USDA-licensed breeder or dealer builds a new confinement area after the effective date of this section, those minimum standards must meet or exceed the minimum specifications as they relate to confinement area size under section 346.39, subdivision 4.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art. 13, § 34, eff. July 1, 2014.
(a) The board must initiate an investigation upon receiving a formal complaint alleging violations of section 347.58 or 347.59.
(b) When a local animal control authority, a peace officer, or a humane agent appointed under section 343.01 is made aware of an alleged violation under this chapter or chapter 343 or 346, committed by a commercial breeder, the local animal control authority, peace officer, or humane agent appointed under section 343.01 must report the alleged violation in a timely manner to the board.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art. 13, § 35, eff. July 1, 2014.
Subdivision 1. Correction orders. (a) The board may issue a correction order requiring a commercial breeder to correct a violation of state statutes, rules, and regulations governing breeding facilities. The correction order must state the deficiencies that constitute the violation; the specific statute, rule, or regulation violated; and when the violation must be corrected.
(b) A commercial breeder may ask the board to reconsider any portion of the correction order that the commercial breeder believes is in error. The request for reconsideration must be made in writing by certified mail or electronically in a method approved by the board within seven days after receipt of the correction order. The request for reconsideration does not stay the correction order. The board must respond to the request for reconsideration within 15 days after receiving a request. The board's disposition of a request for reconsideration is final. The board may extend the time for complying with a correction order after receiving a request for reconsideration if necessary.
(c) The board must reinspect the facility within 15 days after the time for correcting the violation has passed to determine whether the violation has been corrected. If the violation has been corrected, the board must notify the commercial breeder in writing that the commercial breeder is in compliance with the correction order. The board may charge a reinspection fee to determine if a previous violation has been corrected.
Subd. 2. Administrative penalty orders. After the inspection required under subdivision 1, paragraph (c), the board may issue an order requiring violations to be corrected and administratively assessing monetary penalties for violations. The administrative penalty order must include a citation of the statute, rule, or regulation violated; a description of the violation; and the amount of the penalty for each violation. A single correction order may assess a maximum administrative penalty of $5,000.
Subd. 3. Injunctive relief. In addition to any other remedy provided by law, the board may bring an action for injunctive relief in the district court in Ramsey County or in the county in which a violation of the statutes, rules, or regulations governing the breeding of cats and dogs occurred to enjoin the violation.
Subd. 4. Cease and desist. The board must issue an order to cease a practice if its continuation would result in an immediate risk to animal welfare or public health. An order issued under this subdivision is effective for a maximum of 72 hours. The board or its designated agent must seek an injunction or take other administrative action authorized by law to restrain a practice beyond 72 hours. The issuance of a cease-and-desist order does not preclude other enforcement action by the board.
Subd. 5. Refusal to reissue license; license suspension or revocation. (a) The board may suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew a license as follows:
(1) for failure to comply with a correction order;
(2) for failure to pay an administrative penalty;
(3) for failure to meet the requirements of section 347.58 or 347.59; or
(4) for falsifying information requested by the board.
A license suspension, revocation, or nonrenewal may be appealed through the Office of Administrative Hearings. A notice of intent to appeal must be filed in writing with the board within 20 days after receipt of the notice of suspension, revocation, or nonrenewal.
(b) The board must revoke a license if a commercial breeder has been convicted of cruelty to animals under Minnesota law or a substantially similar animal cruelty law of another jurisdiction, or for the denial, revocation, or suspension of a similar license by another federal or state authority. A license revocation under this subdivision may be appealed through the Office of Administrative Hearings. A notice of intent to appeal must be filed in writing with the board within 20 days after receipt of the notice of revocation.
(c) A commercial breeder whose license is revoked may not reapply for licensure for two years after the date of revocation. The license is permanently revoked if the basis for the revocation was a gross misdemeanor or felony conviction for animal cruelty.
(d) A commercial breeder whose license is suspended or revoked two times is permanently barred from licensure.
Subd. 6. Administrative hearing rights. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), if the board proposes to refuse to renew, suspend, or revoke a license, the board must first notify the commercial breeder in writing of the proposed action and provide an opportunity to request a hearing under the contested case provisions of chapter 14. If the commercial breeder does not request a hearing within 20 days after receipt of the notice of the proposed action, the board may proceed with the action without a hearing.
(b) The contested case provisions of chapter 14 do not apply when the board denies a license based on an applicant's failure to meet the minimum qualifications for licensure.
(c) A commercial breeder may appeal the amount of an administrative penalty order through the Office of Administrative Hearings pursuant to the procedures set forth in chapter 14. A commercial breeder wishing to file an appeal must notify the board in writing within 20 days after receipt of the administrative penalty order.
Subd. 7. Other jurisdictions. The board may accept as prima facie evidence of grounds for an enforcement action under this section any enforcement or disciplinary action from another jurisdiction, if the underlying violation would be grounds for a violation under the provisions of this section.
Subd. 8. Appeals. A final order by the board may be appealed to the Minnesota Court of Appeals.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art. 13, § 36, eff. July 1, 2014.
347.615. Biosecurity; entry into facilities
No law enforcement officer, agent of the board, or other official may enter a commercial breeder facility unless the person follows either the biosecurity procedure issued by the board or a reasonable biosecurity procedure maintained and prominently posted by the commercial breeder at each entry to a facility, whichever is more stringent. This section does not apply in emergency or exigent circumstances.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art. 13, § 37, eff. July 1, 2014.
(a) A violation of section 347.58 or 347.59 that results in cruelty or torture to an animal, as those terms are defined in section 343.20, subdivision 3, is subject to the penalties in section 343.21, subdivisions 9 and 10, relating to pet or companion animals.
(b) It is a misdemeanor to falsify information in a license application, annual report, or record.
(c) It is a misdemeanor for an unlicensed commercial breeder to advertise animals for sale.
(d) It is a misdemeanor for a commercial breeder to operate without a license.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art. 13, § 38, eff. July 1, 2014.
347.63. Dog and cat breeders licensing account; appropriation
A dog and cat breeders licensing account is created in the special revenue fund. All fees and penalties collected by the board under sections 347.58 to 347.62 must be deposited in the state treasury and credited to the dog and cat breeders licensing account in the special revenue fund. Money in the account, including interest on the account, is annually appropriated to the board to administer those sections.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art. 13, § 39, eff. July 1, 2014.
Sections 347.57 to 347.63 do not apply to:
(1) any species other than dogs and cats as they are defined in section 347.57; and
(2) veterinary clinics or veterinary hospitals.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art. 13, § 40, eff. July 1, 2014.
347.65. Recognition; commercial breeder excellence
The Board of Animal Health, in consultation with representatives of the licensed commercial breeder industry, must develop a program to recognize persons who demonstrate commercial breeder excellence and exceed the standards and practices required of commercial breeders under sections 347.57 to 347.64.
Credits
Laws 2014, c. 312, art 13, § 45.
Chapter 365. Town General Law. Town Meeting Powers. (for dog related provisions, see Subd. 1a, 3, and 13).
365.10. What electors may do at annual town meeting (edited)
Subdivision 1. Powers listed here. The electors of a town, at their annual town meeting, may do what is in this section.
Subd. 1a. Pounds, poundmasters. The electors may (1) decide the locations of pounds, (2) set the number of poundmasters, and (3) discontinue a pound.
Subd. 2. Repealed by Laws 1999, c. 132, § 46.
Subd. 3. Animals at large. The electors may make orders and bylaws on restraining horses, cattle, sheep, swine, and other domestic animals from going at large on roads. They may also make orders and bylaws on the impounding of domestic animals going at large and fix penalties for violations of the orders and bylaws.
* * *
Subd. 13. Control dogs, cats. The electors may let the town board pass an ordinance for licensing dogs and cats and regulating their presence, keeping, and running at large in the town.
* * *
Subd. 17. Other activities.
(a) To grant the town board authority to provide for a specific activity that is within any of the following categories:
(1) the government and good order of the town,
(2) the suppression of vice and immorality,
(3) the prevention of crime,
(4) the protection of public and private property,
(5) the benefit of residence, trade, and commerce,
(6) the promotion of health, safety, order, and convenience, and
(7) the general welfare.
(b) Authority under this subdivision may be exercised by ordinances that the board deems expedient and that are consistent with the Constitution and laws of the United States and this state.
Subd. 18. Capital reserve fund. The electors may authorize creation of a capital reserve fund and designate its use for any lawful purpose.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1953, c. 70, § 1; Laws 1967, c. 95, § 1, eff. March 23, 1967; Laws 1978, c. 497, § 1; Laws 1981, c. 77, § 2, eff. May 5, 1981; Laws 1984, c. 536, § 1, eff. April 26, 1984; Laws 1984, c. 562, § 12; Laws 1985, c. 169, § 7; Laws 1986, c. 327, § 1; Laws 1986, c. 333, § 1; Laws 1987, c. 90, § 1; Laws 1987, c. 229, art. 8, § 1; Laws 1999, c. 113, § 1; Laws 2001, c. 11, § 1; Laws 2008, c. 166, §§ 1, 2, eff. Aug. 1, 2008.
366.01. Town board powers listed; formal name (edited)
Subdivision 1. General powers, expenses, bonds. The supervisors of each town constitute a board to be designated “The Town Board of ...............” Unless provided otherwise, two supervisors shall be a quorum. In towns operating under option A, three shall be a quorum. The supervisors shall have charge of all town affairs not committed to other officers by law. They shall draw orders on the treasurer to disburse money to pay the town expenses, and to disburse money raised by the town for any other purpose. They may pay the premium upon the bond of a town officer if the surety is a corporation authorized by law to be a surety. In lieu of individual bonds, the town board may provide for a blanket position bond by a surety company if all the obligations required by law or ordinance to be assumed by the principals and the principals' sureties by individual bonds are included in the blanket position bond.
Subd. 2. Amusements, performances; pets, firearms. They may by ordinance prohibit or license and regulate the keeping of billiard, pool, and pigeonhole tables, games of amusement, games of skill, juke boxes, roller skating rinks, bowling alleys, circuses, shows, and theatrical performances. They may fix the price and duration of the license. When in their opinion the public interest requires it, they may revoke the license. Within any platted residential area of the town, they may license and regulate the presence or keeping of dogs or domestic animal pets and regulate or prohibit the discharge of firearms, when deemed to be in the public interest.
* * *
Subd. 10. Penal offenses. They may declare that a violation of an ordinance is a penal offense and prescribe penalties for violations, except as otherwise provided by law. No penalty shall exceed that provided by law for a misdemeanor, but the costs of prosecution may be added.
* * *
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1949, c. 14, § 1; Laws 1951, c. 627, § 1; Laws 1953, c. 459, § 1; Laws 1955, c. 518, § 1; Laws 1957, c. 254, § 1; Laws 1963, c. 152, § 1; Laws 1967, c. 95, § 2, eff. March 23, 1967; Laws 1973, c. 92, § 1; Laws 1973, c. 123, art. 5, § 7; Laws 1973, c. 188, § 1; Laws 1975, c. 274, § 8, eff. June 3, 1975; Laws 1978, c. 497, § 3; Laws 1984, c. 503, § 5; Laws 1984, c. 562, §§ 18 to 24; Laws 1986, c. 327, § 2; Laws 1986, c. 444; Laws 1987, c. 90, § 5; Laws 1989, c. 9, § 1; Laws 1989, c. 197, art. 7, § 1; Laws 1994, c. 455, § 1; Laws 1995, c. 15, § 1; Laws 2012, c. 209, § 2, eff. April 24, 2012.
Crimes; Expungement; Victims (Ch. 609-624). Chapter 609. Criminal Code. Crimes Against the Person
Subdivision 1. Great or substantial bodily harm. A person who causes great or substantial bodily harm to another by negligently or intentionally permitting any dog to run uncontrolled off the owner's premises, or negligently failing to keep it properly confined is guilty of a misdemeanor. A person who is convicted of a second or subsequent violation of this section involving the same dog is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
Subd. 2. Dangerous dogs. If the owner of a dangerous dog, as defined under section 347.50, subdivision 2, has been convicted of a misdemeanor under section 347.55, and the same dog causes bodily injury to a person other than the owner, the owner is guilty of a gross misdemeanor and may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than 364 days or to payment of a fine of not more than $3,000, or both.
Subd. 3. Defense. If proven by a preponderance of the evidence, it shall be an affirmative defense to liability under subdivision 1 or 2 that the victim provoked the dog to cause the victim's bodily harm.
Subd. 4. Harm to service animal caused by dog; crime, mandatory restitution. (a) As used in this subdivision, “service animal” means an animal individually trained or being trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability.
(b) A person who negligently or intentionally (1) permits the person's dog to run uncontrolled off the person's premises, or (2) fails to keep the person's dog properly confined or controlled; and as a result the dog causes bodily harm to a service animal or otherwise renders a service animal unable to perform its duties, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(c) The court shall order a person convicted of violating this subdivision to pay restitution for the costs and expenses resulting from the crime. Costs and expenses include, but are not limited to, the service animal user's loss of income, veterinary expenses, transportation costs, and other expenses of temporary replacement assistance services, and service animal replacement or retraining costs incurred by a school, agency, or individual. If the court finds that the convicted person is indigent, the court may reduce the amount of restitution to a reasonable level or order it paid in installments.
(d) This subdivision does not preclude a person from seeking any available civil remedies for an act that violates this subdivision.
Credits
Laws 1985, c. 294, § 7, eff. Aug. 1, 1985. Amended by Laws 1988, c. 711, § 8, eff. Aug. 1, 1988; Laws 1989, c. 37, § 13, eff. Aug. 1, 1989; Laws 2004, c. 159, §§ 1, 2; Laws 2023, c. 52, art. 6, § 16.