Title 36. Public Health and Safety. Chapter 433. Disease and Condition Control; Mass Gatherings; Indoor Air. Rabies Control.
433.350. Destruction of animal
433.355. Enforcement of ORS 433.350; petition of county circuit court
433.360. Rabies cases; report; quarantine
433.365. Dogs; inoculation against rabies
433.370. Inoculation certificate
433.375. Inoculation certificate filing; issuance of license
433.377. Issuance of license considered verification of inoculation
433.379. Inoculation certificate disposal upon expiration
433.385. Animal impoundment; redemption; disposition
433.390. County dog control fund
Title 48. Animals. Chapter 609. Animal Control; Exotic Animals; Dealers. Dogs.
Definitions, Animal Control, Licensing, & Impoundment Provisions:
609.010. Repealed by Laws 2005, c. 840, § 9.
609.015. Application of state law
609.040. Repealed by Laws 2011, c. 607, § 18, eff. Jan. 1, 2012
609.060. Notice by publication of election result; dogs running at large prohibited; violations
609.093. Considerations as to disposition of chasing, menacing or biting dog
609.097. Repealed by Laws 2005, c. 840, § 9
609.098. Maintaining dangerous dog defined
609.100. Licenses, tags and fees
609.105. Assistance animal exemptions
609.115. Potentially dangerous dog; damage; liability
Dogs Chasing Livestock Provisions:
609.135. Application of ORS 609.156, 609.162 and 609.168
609.140. Action by owner of damaged livestock
609.150. Destruction of dog that harms or chases livestock, exemptions
609.153. Education of dog owners
609.155. Impoundment of dogs for harming or chasing livestock; tests to determine fact; costs
609.156. Opportunity of dog owner to request hearing
609.158. Hearings; notice of determination to owner; reexamination
609.161. Disputable presumption that dog harms or chases livestock
609.162. Guidelines for imposing reasonable measures, civil penalties or other sanctions
609.163. Enhanced penalties for habitual violators
609.166. Penalized dog owner record
609.167. Nature of penalty; recordation of penalty into lien record book; action for damages
609.168. Microchip identification
609.169. Prohibition of keeping dog with knowledge that it has harmed livestock; exemptions
609.170. Claim by owner of livestock; affidavits
609.180. Hearing and payment of claims
609.190. Subrogation of county; collection of damages by district attorney
Exotic Pet Provisions:
609.309. Policy on regulation of exotic animals
609.312. Provision of informational materials required
609.315. Permit requirement exceptions
609.325. Conditions for keeping exotic animal
609.329. Liability of keeper for escape or injury
609.335. Permits; rules; fee; revocation; warning
609.345. Permit requirement exceptions
609.351. Permit to keep exotic animals owned prior to January 1, 2010
609.355. Permit to keep exotic animals in registered facilities
Euthanasia Provisions:
609.405. Methods for destruction of dogs and cats
Animal Rescue Entities:
609.410. Adoption of dogs or cats used for laboratory research; examination by veterinarian to determine health and safety; liability; reports
609.411. Preemption of ORS 609.410
609.415. Record-keeping requirements; licensing requirements; inspections; civil penalties
609.420. Investigation of licensed animal rescue entities
Animal Dealer/Use of Dogs in Research:
609.505. "Crime of unlawfully obtaining dog or cat" defined; affirmative defense
609.510. Establishment and maintenance of records by animal dealers; report to State Department; fee; public inspection of records
609.515. Required time of possession of animal by dealer
609.650. Legislative findings on relation between animal cruelty and domestic violence
609.652. Definitions related to aggravated animal abuse
609.654. Suspected aggravated animal abuse
609.656. Suspected animal abuse or neglect; reporting by regulated social worker
609.815. Ownership of dogs; ratio between dogs and onsite individuals
Penalty Provisions:
609.992. Penalties for ORS 609.319
609.994. Penalties for ORS 609.510 to 609.520; cause of action for damages; injunctions
Title 9. Mortgages and Liens. Chapter 87. Statutory Liens. Possessory Chattel Liens.
87.172. Retention of chattel prior to foreclosure, limitations
Title 41. Wildlife. Chapter 498. Hunting, Angling and Trapping Regulations; Miscellaneous Wildlife Protective Measures. Hunting and Trapping Restrictions.
498.102. Use of dogs for hunting or tracking game mammals or birds
498.106. Hunting dog competitive field trials
Title 50. Trade Regulations and Practices. Chapter 646A. Trade Regulation. Sales (Retail Pet Stores).
646A.075. Sale of dogs by retail pet stores; requisite information
646A.077. Sale of dogs to pet dealers; refunds
Title 16. Crimes and Punishments. Chapter 167. Offenses Against General Welfare and Animals. Offenses Against Animals
167.374. Breeding dogs; possession; records
167.376. Breeding dogs; standard of care
Title 59. Oregon Vehicle Code. Chapter 811. Rules of the Road for Drivers. Driver Offenses Involving Passengers
811.200. Carrying dog on external part of vehicle; penalties
Title 3. Remedies and Special Actions and Proceedings. Chapter 30. Actions and Suits in Particular Cases. Miscellaneous Actions.
30.815. Seller or lessor of law enforcement dogs; liability
Title 3. Remedies and Special Actions and Proceedings. Chapter 31. Tort Actions. Specific Claims for Relief (Actions Arising from Injuries Caused by Dogs)
31.360. Economic damages from injuries caused by dogs
Title 36. Public Health and Safety. Chapter 433. Disease and Condition Control; Mass Gatherings; Indoor Air. Rabies Control.
As used in ORS 433.340 to 433.390 unless the context requires otherwise:
(1) "Animal" means a dog or other animal of a species susceptible to rabies.
(2) "Owner" means any person having a right of property in an animal or who harbors an animal or who has it in the care of the person, or acts as its custodian, or who knowingly permits an animal to remain on or about any premises occupied by the person. "Owner" does not include veterinarians or kennel operators temporarily maintaining on their premises animals owned by other persons for a period of not more than 30 days.
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 1.
433.345. Animal bites; reports; promulgation of rules regarding the handling and disposition of animals
(1) If an animal bites a person and the bite causes a break in the skin, or if an animal is suspected of rabies or has been in close contact with an animal suspected of rabies, the facts shall be immediately reported to the local health officer by any person having direct knowledge.
(2) The Oregon Health Authority, in consultation with the State Department of Agriculture, shall promulgate rules relating to the handling and disposition of animals that have bitten a person or are suspected of rabies or that have been in close contact with an animal suspected of rabies. Such rules may include requirements for confinement, isolation and inoculation. Owners or persons in possession of animals subject to such rules, shall handle or dispose or allow the handling or disposal of such animals strictly in accordance with such rules.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 2; Laws 1977, c. 189, § 4; Laws 2001, c. 636, § 2; Laws 2009, c. 595, § 663, eff. June 26, 2009.
433.350. Destruction of animal
When confinement and observation of an animal for purposes of determining infection with rabies will not avoid the necessity of the application of painful or possibly dangerous preventative treatment to a person who has been bitten or scratched by such animal, the Director of the Oregon Health Authority may order possession of the animal to be immediately relinquished to the director or to the authorized representative of the director and may order the animal destroyed for examination of its bodily tissues.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 3; Laws 2009, c. 595, § 664, eff. June 26, 2009.
433.355. Enforcement of ORS 433.350; petition of county circuit court
(1) In the event of the refusal of the owner or person in possession of an animal to comply with an order of the Director of the Oregon Health Authority under ORS 433.350, the director or the authorized representative of the director may petition the circuit court of the county in which such animal is located for an order requiring such owner or person to comply with such order.
(2) The petition shall be verified and shall set forth the facts relative to the refusal to comply with the order. A copy of the petition shall be served upon the owner or person in possession of the animal in the manner provided for service of summons in civil actions. Such owner or person in possession shall appear and answer the petition at a time and place set by the court in an order, a copy of which shall be served with the petition, directing the defendant to appear at such time and place, and to then and there show cause, if any, why an order directing compliance with the order of the director should not be granted. The time set by the court for the hearing to show cause shall be made with due regard for the circumstances of the person or persons who have been subjected to the bite or scratch of the animal and whose health or life may be in jeopardy.
(3) If the owner or person in possession fails to appear or the court either with or without such appearance finds the allegations of the petition are true and the order of the director is necessary under ORS 433.350, the court shall enter its order requiring the owner or person in possession of such animal to comply with the order of the director.
(4) The sheriff of the county in which the animal is located shall execute such order by serving upon the owner or person in possession a copy thereof duly certified to by the clerk of the circuit court and by enforcing the provisions thereof.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 4; Laws 2009, c. 595, § 665, eff. June 26, 2009.
433.360. Rabies cases; report; quarantine
(1) Whenever a case of animal rabies occurs, the fact shall be reported to the Director of the Oregon Health Authority and to the State Department of Agriculture immediately.
(2) The department, in consultation with the Oregon Health Authority, shall establish a quarantine pursuant to ORS chapter 596 if the department and the authority find that a quarantine is necessary.
(3) The department and the authority may contract with counties for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of ORS 433.350, 433.355 and subsection (2) of this section.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 5; Laws 1975, c. 750, § 1; Laws 1977, c. 189, § 5; Laws 2009, c. 595, § 666, eff. June 26, 2009.
433.365. Dogs; inoculation against rabies
(1) A dog that has permanent canine teeth or that is six months of age or older must be inoculated against rabies, unless specifically exempted by rule of the Oregon Health Authority or the State Department of Agriculture.
(2) Unless pursuant to conditions specified in ORS 430.357, any rules of the department or the authority with respect to inoculation shall:
(a) Not apply to animals brought temporarily into the state for periods of less than 30 days but may require that the animals be kept under strict supervision by the owners of the animals.
(b) Not apply to dogs or to any other animal specifically exempted from the inoculation requirement by rule of the department or the authority.
(3) The costs of all such required inoculations shall be borne by the owners of the animal.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 7; Laws 1975, c. 750, § 2; Laws 2001, c. 636, § 3; Laws 2009, c. 595, § 667, eff. June 26, 2009.
The Oregon Health Authority shall be responsible for development and coordination of vaccination clinics at sufficient and reasonable times at various locations throughout the state for the inoculation of dogs against rabies. Costs of vaccination shall be borne by the dog owner.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1977, c. 189, § 2; Laws 2009, c. 595, § 668, eff. June 26, 2009.
433.370. Inoculation certificate
Every veterinarian inoculating an animal against rabies shall supply to the owner evidence of inoculation which shall consist of a certificate issued and signed by the veterinarian. The form of the certificate shall be prescribed by the Oregon Health Authority.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 8; Laws 1975, c. 750, § 3; Laws 1977, c. 189, § 6; Laws 1985, c. 793, § 1; Laws 2009, c. 595, § 669, eff. June 26, 2009.
433.375. Inoculation certificate filing; issuance of license
(1) The owner of the animal shall present by mail or otherwise the inoculation certificate, together with the fee fixed pursuant to ORS 433.380, if any, to the clerk of the county in which the owner resides.
(2) The county shall upon receipt of the fee and presentation of the certificate issue to the owner a serial-numbered tag, legibly identifying its expiration date as such date is determined in accordance with rules of the Oregon Health Authority relating to intervals of inoculation. The tag shall be designed for and shall be attached to a collar or harness that must be worn by the dog for which the tag and certificate are issued at all times when off or outside the premises of the owner. Whenever an original tag is lost, mutilated or destroyed, upon application and payment of the fee prescribed under ORS 433.380, if any, a replacement tag, to be dated, designed and worn as the original, shall be issued.
(3) No official of any county shall issue a license for a dog until the official has been shown a proper certification, or its equivalent, of a rabies inoculation.
(4) If the county files the certificate upon which a tag is issued, it shall be cross-referenced to the tag number. If the certificate is not filed, the county shall keep an appropriate record of the expiration date and number, if any, of the certificate cross-referenced to the tag number. Notwithstanding ORS 205.320 (1)(a), a fee is not required for filing the certificate.
(5) Unexpired tags shall be honored in all counties when the animal is in transit or where the owner has established a new residence.
(6) The provisions of this section apply to a city, rather than a county, in a city that has a dog licensing program.
Credits
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 9; Laws 1975, c. 750, § 4; Laws 1977, c. 189, § 6a; Laws 1985, c. 793, § 2; Laws 1991, c. 230, § 34; Laws 2009, c. 595, § 670, eff. June 26, 2009; Laws 2015, c. 27, § 47, eff. Jan. 1, 2016.
433.377. Issuance of license considered verification of inoculation
Notwithstanding ORS 433.375 or any other provision of law, a county or city may consider issuance of a license for a dog as verification of there being a certificate of inoculation on file and need not issue a tag pursuant to ORS 433.375 (2).
Laws 1977, c. 189, § 3.
433.379. Inoculation certificate disposal upon expiration
Notwithstanding ORS 192.001 to 192.170, the county or city may dispose of certificates of inoculation upon their expiration date.
Laws 1977, c. 189, § 12.
A fee for the tag and replacement tag may be fixed in each county by the governing body of the county in such amount as it finds necessary to enable the county to carry out the provisions of ORS 433.365, 433.370 and 433.380 to 433.390 and the regulations promulgated hereunder and shall not be considered a license or tax within the meaning of ORS 609.100.
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 10.
433.385. Animal impoundment; redemption; disposition
(1) Any animal in violation of ORS 433.365 shall be apprehended and impounded.
(2) All animals apprehended and impounded under this section shall be held in adequate and sanitary pounds to be established or contracted for in each county by the governing body of the county. All animals so impounded shall be given proper care and maintenance.
(3) When an animal is apprehended and impounded, the owner, if known, shall be given notice of not less than five days from the date of such impounding before the animal is destroyed or otherwise disposed of. An owner appearing to redeem the animal may do so if the provisions of ORS 433.365 are complied with and if the owner pays the expense of keeping the animal during the time it was impounded and in addition thereto, the sum established by the county governing body. If the animal is subject to any other impounding law the requirements for release under that law shall also be met except that the expense of keeping the animal shall be payable only once for the period of impoundment. If the owner does not appear to redeem the animal after the notice provided for herein, or otherwise, after five days, or if the owner is not known, after three days, the governing body of the county may provide for animals impounded to be released to any other person upon the conditions outlined in this subsection or otherwise disposed of in a humane manner.
(4) If the owner desires to redeem an animal impounded pursuant to this section or the animal is to be released to any other person as provided in subsection (3) of this section, the person shall post a $20 deposit with the county and obtain possession of the animal for the purpose of complying with ORS 433.365. The county shall refund the deposit to a person who, on or before the eighth day after obtaining possession of the animal, demonstrates proof of rabies inoculation or exemption from the inoculation requirement and, if applicable, proof of purchase of a license as required under ORS 609.100. Failure to demonstrate proof of rabies inoculation or exemption and proof of licensing within the prescribed time shall forfeit the deposit to the county.
(5) The governing body of the county shall designate persons responsible for the enforcement of this section.
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 11; Laws 1977, c. 189, § 7; Laws 2001, c. 636, § 4.
433.390. County dog control fund
(1) All moneys received by a county under ORS 433.340 to 433.390 and 433.990 (6) shall be paid to the county dog control fund.
(2) The governing body of the county may, in the event of a rabies outbreak within the county, use such portion of the dog control fund as it deems necessary to purchase rabies vaccine for administration to animals under the direction of the state and local health officers.
Laws 1971, c. 413, § 12; Laws 1977, c. 189, § 8; Laws 1987, c. 158, § 78; Laws 1987, c. 905, § 22; Laws 2001, c. 104, § 156; Laws 2007, c. 445, § 31, eff. Jan. 1, 2008.
433.405. Amended by Laws 1973, c. 779, § 4; Laws 1979, c. 828, § 5; repealed by Laws 1981, c. 198, § 2
Title 48. Animals. Chapter 609. Animal Control; Exotic Animals; Dealers. Dogs.
609.010. Repealed by Laws 2005, c. 840, § 9.
609.015. Application of state law
(1) ORS 609.030 and 609.040 to 609.110 apply in every county except as otherwise provided by county charter or ordinance. ORS 609.030 and 609.040 to 609.110 do not limit the powers of cities and counties to adopt ordinances and regulations relating to the control of dogs.
(2) A county dog licensing and control program shall not apply within the limits of a city that has its own dog licensing and control program.
Laws 1967, c. 496, § 3; Laws 1977, c. 237, § 1; subsection (2) enacted as Laws 1977, c. 802, § 2; Laws 1999, c. 756, § 16.
609.020. Dogs declared personal property
Dogs are hereby declared to be personal property.
609.030. Establishment of dog control district; appointment of supervisors; enforcement; county governing body as supervisors; dog control officer
(1) The governing body of any county may declare the county a dog control district.
(2) Upon declaration of the dog control district the county governing body may appoint a board of supervisors, and provide for the terms, compensation and other aspects of service by board members, at least two of whom shall be connected directly or indirectly with the livestock industry.
(3) The board may issue licenses and enforce all of the county and state laws relating to the control of dogs within the county, including that of making arrests and shall perform such other duties as the county governing body may assign to it.
(4) The county governing body may elect to act as the board of supervisors of the dog control district.
(5) The county governing body may provide for appointment of a dog control officer and otherwise provide for administration and enforcement of a dog control program.
Amended by Laws 1957, c. 79, § 1; Laws 1963, c. 398, § 1; Laws 1975, c. 297, § 1; Laws 1977, c. 189, § 9.
As used in ORS 609.035 to 609.110 and 609.990:
(1) “Boarding kennel”:
(a) Means, except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, a facility that provides care for a fee to dogs that stay at the facility an average of less than 30 days.
(b) Does not mean a facility that is subject to ORS 167.374 or 167.376.
(2) “Dog control board” means a group of persons whose duties include, but need not be limited to, fulfilling the duties of a dog control district board of supervisors as described in ORS 609.030.
(3) “Dog control officer” means a person whose duties include, but need not be limited to, enforcing the dog control laws for a dog control district.
(4) “Keeper” means a person who owns, possesses, controls or otherwise has charge of a dog, other than:
(a) A boarding kennel;
(b) A humane society or other nonprofit animal shelter;
(c) A facility impounding dogs on behalf of a city or county; or
(d) A veterinary facility.
(5) “Menaces” means lunging, growling, snarling or other behavior by a dog that would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person's safety.
(6) “Potentially dangerous dog” means a dog that:
(a) Without provocation and while not on premises from which the keeper may lawfully exclude others, menaces a person;
(b) Without provocation, inflicts physical injury on a person that is less severe than a serious physical injury; or
(c) Without provocation and while not on premises from which the keeper may lawfully exclude others, inflicts physical injury on or kills a domestic animal as defined in ORS167.310.
(7) “Running at large” means that a dog is off or outside of the premises from which the keeper of the dog may lawfully exclude others, or is not in the company of and under the control of its keeper, except if the dog is:
(a) Being used to legally hunt, chase or tree wildlife while under the supervision of the keeper;
(b) Being used to control or protect livestock or for other activities related to agriculture; or
(c) Within any part of a vehicle.
(8) “Serious physical injury” has the meaning given that term in ORS 161.015.
Credits
Laws 2005, c. 840, § 4; Laws 2015, c. 292, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2016.
609.040. Repealed by Laws 2011, c. 607, § 18, eff. Jan. 1, 2012
609.050. Amended by Laws 1967, c. 496, § 1; repealed by Laws 1977, c. 802, § 15
609.060. Notice by publication of election result; dogs running at large prohibited; violations
(1) If the governing body of a county by ordinance, or a measure approved by the electors in an election conducted in accordance with ORS chapter 250, prohibits dogs from running at large, the county shall give notice, by publication in a newspaper having a general circulation in the county.
(2) After 60 days from the date of the notice, every person keeping a dog shall prevent the dog from running at large in any county or city where prohibited. A person who is the keeper of a dog commits a Class B violation if the dog runs at large where prohibited.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1965, c. 499, § 1; Laws 1977, c. 802, § 5; Laws 1999, c. 658, § 5; Laws 2011, c. 597, § 248, eff. July 1, 2011, operative Jan. 1, 2012; Laws 2011, c. 597, § 317, eff. July 1, 2011, operative Jan. 1, 2012.
609.070. Repealed by Laws 1969, c. 677, § 5
609.080. Amended by Laws 1959, c. 618, § 2; repealed by Laws 1967, c. 495, § 4
609.090. Impounding dogs running at large; disposition of chasing, menacing or biting dogs and other dogs; fees; release of dog
(1) A law enforcement officer or dog control officer may cite a keeper, impound a dog, or both if:
(a) The dog is found running at large in violation of ORS 609.060;
(b) The dog is a public nuisance as described by ORS 609.095; or
(c) The officer has probable cause to believe that the dog is a dangerous dog as defined in ORS 609.098.
(2) All dogs impounded under this section and ORS 609.030 shall be held in an adequate and sanitary pound to be provided by the county governing body from the general fund or out of funds obtained from dog licenses and from the redemption of dogs so impounded. However, in lieu of the establishment of a dog pound, the county governing body may contract for the care of the dogs. Unless claimed by its keeper, a dog shall be impounded for at least three days if the dog is without a license or identification tag and for at least five days if it has a license or identification tag. A reasonable effort shall be made to notify the keeper of a dog before the dog is removed from impoundment.
(3) Unless the dog control board or county governing body provides otherwise, if the keeper appears and redeems the dog, the keeper shall pay a sum of not less than $10 for the first impoundment and not less than $20 for each subsequent impoundment and also pay the expense of keeping the dog during the time it was impounded. If the dog is unlicensed the keeper shall also purchase a license and pay the applicable penalty for failure to have a license. If the keeper is not the owner of the dog, the keeper may request that a license purchased by the keeper under this subsection be issued in the name of the dog owner.
(4) In addition to any payment required pursuant to subsection (3) of this section, a dog control board or county governing body may require as a condition for redeeming the dog that the keeper agree to reasonable restrictions on the keeping of the dog. The keeper must pay the cost of complying with the reasonable restrictions. As used in this subsection, "reasonable restrictions" may include, but is not limited to, sterilization.
(5) A keeper of a dog maintains a public nuisance if the keeper fails to comply with reasonable restrictions imposed under subsection (4) of this section or if a keeper fails to provide acceptable proof of compliance to the dog control board or county governing body on or before the 10th day after issuance of the order imposing the restrictions. If the board or governing body finds the proof submitted by the keeper unacceptable, the board or governing body shall send notice of that finding to the keeper no later than five days after the proof is received.
(6) If no keeper appears to redeem a dog within the allotted time, the dog may be killed in a humane manner. The dog control board or county governing body may release the dog to a responsible person upon receiving assurance that the person will properly care for the dog and upon payment of a sum established by the county governing body plus cost of keep during its impounding, and purchase of a license if required. The person shall thereafter be the keeper of the dog for purposes of ORS 609.035 to 609.110.
(7) If the keeper of a dog is not charged with violating ORS 609.095 (2) or (3) or ORS 609.098, and the dog control board or county governing body finds that the dog has menaced or chased a person when on premises other than the premises from which the keeper may lawfully exclude others or has bitten a person, the dog control board or county governing body may order that the dog be killed in a humane manner. Before ordering that the dog be killed, the board or governing body shall consider the factors described in ORS 609.093 and issue written findings on those factors. Notwithstanding ORS 34.030, if the disposition order issued by the board or governing body provides that the dog is to be killed, a petition by the keeper for a writ of review must be filed no later than the 10th day after the dog control board or county governing body sends notice of the order to the keeper. Notwithstanding ORS 19.270, 19.330 and 34.070, the order for the killing of the dog may not be carried out during the period that the order is subject to review or appeal. If the dog is not killed, the board or governing body may impose reasonable restrictions on the keeping of the dog. The keeper must pay the cost of complying with the reasonable restrictions.
(8) If the keeper of a dog is charged with violating ORS 609.095 (2) or (3) or 609.098, upon conviction of the keeper the court may determine the disposition of the dog as provided under ORS 609.990.
(9) Notwithstanding subsections (2), (3), (6), (7) and (8) of this section, any dog impounded for biting a person shall be held for at least 10 days before redemption or destruction to determine if the dog is rabid.
(10) Notwithstanding subsections (2) and (3) of this section, if the keeper is charged with violating ORS 609.098, the dog shall be kept in impoundment pending resolution of the charges. A court may order the keeper to post a deposit with the dog control board or county governing body to cover the cost of keeping the dog in impoundment. If the keeper is convicted of violating ORS 609.098, the court may order the deposit forfeited to the board or governing body.
(11) A dog control board or county governing body may impose lesser fees or penalties under subsections (3) and (6) of this section for certain senior citizens under certain circumstances.
Amended by Laws 1953, c. 571, § 2; Laws 1957, c. 79, § 2; Laws 1963, c. 237, § 1; Laws 1963, c. 585, § 1; Laws 1967, c. 495, § 2; Laws 1969, c. 677, § 4; Laws 1973, c. 655, § 3; Laws 1975, c. 499, § 1; Laws 1977, c. 802, § 6; Laws 1999, c. 658, §§ 6,6a; Laws 2001, c. 636, § 7; Laws 2005, c. 840, § 5.
609.092. Laws 1977, c. 802, § 14; repealed by Laws 1999, c. 1051, § 299
609.093. Considerations as to disposition of chasing, menacing or biting dog
In determining whether a dog should be killed as provided under ORS 609.090 (7) or 609.990 (6), a dog control board, county governing body or court shall consider the following factors:
(1) If the dog has bitten a person, the circumstances and severity of the bite;
(2) Whether the keeper has a history of maintaining dogs that are a public nuisance;
(3) The impact of keeper actions on the behavior of the dog;
(4) The ability and inclination of the keeper to prevent the dog from chasing or menacing another person on premises other than the premises from which the keeper may lawfully exclude others or from biting another person;
(5) Whether the dog can be relocated to a secure facility;
(6) The effect that a transfer of the keeping of the dog to another person would have on ensuring the health and safety of the public;
(7) Behavior by the dog before or since the biting, chasing or menacing; and
(8) Any other factors that the board, governing body or court may deem relevant.
Laws 1999, c. 658, § 2; Laws 2001, c. 636, § 8; Laws 2005, c. 840, § 6.
609.095. Dogs declared public nuisance; public nuisance prohibited; presumption of noncompliance; complaints
(1) A dog is a public nuisance if it:
(a) Chases persons or vehicles on premises other than premises from which the keeper of the dog may lawfully exclude others;
(b) Damages or destroys property of persons other than the keeper of the dog;
(c) Scatters garbage on premises other than premises from which the keeper of the dog may lawfully exclude others;
(d) Trespasses on private property of persons other than the keeper of the dog;
(e) Disturbs any person by frequent or prolonged noises;
(f) Is a female in heat and running at large; or
(g) Is a potentially dangerous dog, but is not a dangerous dog as defined in ORS 609.098.
(2) The keeper of a dog in a county or city that is subject to ORS 609.030 and 609.035 to 609.110 maintains a public nuisance if the dog commits an act described under subsection (1) of this section. Maintaining a dog that is a public nuisance is a violation.
(3) A keeper of a dog maintains a public nuisance if the keeper fails to comply with reasonable restrictions imposed under ORS 609.990 or if a keeper fails to provide acceptable proof of compliance to the court on or before the 10th day after issuance of the order imposing the restrictions. If the court finds the proof submitted by the keeper unacceptable, the court shall send notice of that finding to the keeper no later than five days after the proof is received.
(4) Any person who has cause to believe a keeper is maintaining a dog that is a public nuisance may complain, either orally or in writing, to the county or city. The receipt of any complaint is sufficient cause for the county or city to investigate the matter and determine whether the keeper of the dog is in violation of subsection (2) or (3) of this section.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1973, c. 655, § 2; Laws 1977, c. 802, § 7; Laws 1999, c. 658, § 8; Laws 1999, c. 756, § 18; Laws 2001, c. 636, § 9; Laws 2001, c. 926, § 15; Laws 2005, c. 840, § 7; Laws 2011, c. 607, § 16, eff. Jan. 1, 2012.
Laws 2011, c. 607, § 19, eff. Jan. 1, 2012, as amended by Laws 2011, c. 597, § 318, eff. July 1, 2011, operative Jan. 1, 2012, provides:
“Sec. 19. The amendments to ORS 609.060, 609.095 and 609.100 by sections 16 and 17 , chapter ___, Oregon Laws 2011 (Enrolled House Bill 2256), and section 317 of this 2011 Act [Laws 2011, c. 597] and the repeal of ORS 609.040 by section 18 , chapter ___, Oregon Laws 2011 (Enrolled House Bill 2256), do not invalidate any dog control program formed by one or more precincts prior to the effective date of chapter ___, Oregon Laws 2011 (Enrolled House Bill 2256). Precincts that formed dog control programs prior to the effective date of chapter ___, Oregon Laws 2011 (Enrolled House Bill 2256) may continue to administer and enforce those programs on and after the effective date of chapter ___, Oregon Laws 2011 (Enrolled House Bill 2256) in the same manner as a city dog control program.”
609.097. Exception to public nuisance law - 609.097. Repealed by Laws 2005, c. 840, § 9
609.098. Maintaining dangerous dog defined
(1) As used in this section, "dangerous dog" means a dog that:
(a) Without provocation and in an aggressive manner inflicts serious physical injury, as defined in ORS 161.015, on a person or kills a person;
(b) Acts as a potentially dangerous dog, as defined in ORS 609.035, after having previously committed an act as a potentially dangerous dog that resulted in the keeper being found to have violated ORS 609.095; or
(c) Is used as a weapon in the commission of a crime.
(2) A person commits the crime of maintaining a dangerous dog if the person is the keeper of a dog and the person, with criminal negligence, fails to prevent the dog from engaging in an act described in subsection (1) of this section.
(3) Maintaining a dangerous dog is punishable as described in ORS 609.990.
Laws 2005, c. 840, § 2.
609.100. Licenses, tags and fees
(1) In a county or city having a dog control program under ORS 609.030, 609.035 to 609.110 and 609.405, every person keeping a dog that has a set of permanent canine teeth or is six months old, whichever comes first, shall procure a license for the dog. The license must be procured by paying a license fee to the county in which the person resides not later than March 1 of each year or within 30 days after the person becomes keeper of the dog. However, the county governing body may provide for dates other than March 1 for annual payment of fees. The fee for the license shall be determined by the county governing body in such amount as it finds necessary to carry out ORS 609.035 to 609.110. A license fee shall not be less than $25 for each dog, except that the fee shall not be less than $3 for each spayed female or neutered male dog for which a veterinarian's certificate of operation for the spaying or neutering of the dog is presented to the county. If the person fails to procure a license within the time provided by this section, the county governing body may prescribe a penalty in an additional sum to be set by the governing body.
(2) The county shall, at the time of issuing a license, supply the licensee, without charge, with a suitable identification tag, which shall be fastened by the licensee to a collar and kept on the dog at all times when not in the immediate possession of the licensee.
(3) The license fees in subsection (1) of this section do not apply to dogs that are considered inventory under ORS 307.400 and are not permitted to run at large. The county governing body may establish a separate license for dogs that cease to be considered inventory under ORS 307.400, the fee for which shall not exceed $5 per dog.
(4) A license fee is not required to be paid for any dog kept by a person who is blind and who uses the dog as a guide. A license shall be issued for such dog upon the filing by the person who is blind of an affidavit with the county showing that the dog qualifies for exemption.
(5) The county shall keep a record of dog licenses.
(6) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section or ORS 609.015, when the keeper of a dog obtains a license for the dog, that license is valid and is in lieu of a license for the dog required by any other city or county within this state, for the remainder of the license period:
(a) If the keeper of the dog changes residence to a city or county other than the city or county in which the license was issued; or
(b) If the keeper of the dog transfers the keeping of the dog to a person who resides in a city or county other than the city or county in which the license was issued.
Credits
Amended by Laws 1953, c. 27, § 2; Laws 1959, c. 374, § 1; Laws 1969, c. 677, § 1; Laws 1973, c. 655, § 4; Laws 1977, c. 189, § 10; Laws 1977, c. 802, § 8; Laws 1987, c. 240, § 1; Laws 1999, c. 658, §§ 10, 10a; Laws 2001, c. 753, § 13; Laws 2007, c. 70, § 280, eff. Jan. 1, 2008; Laws 2011, c. 607, § 17, eff. Jan. 1, 2012; Laws 2015, c. 292, § 2, eff. Jan. 1, 2016.
609.105. Assistance animal exemptions
Notwithstanding ORS 609.015 or 609.100, a county or city shall not charge a fee to license a dog used as an assistance animal as defined in section 2 of this 2013 Act. [Link to Assistance Animals Laws]
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1979, c. 366, § 1; Laws 1991, c. 67, § 155; Laws 1999, c. 658, § 11; Laws 2001, c. 104, § 238; Laws 2013, c. 530, §8, eff. June 26, 2013.
All funds derived under ORS 433.340 to 433.385 and 609.040 to 609.110 shall be turned over to the county treasurer, who shall keep them in a fund to be known as the Dog License Fund, to be expended as provided for by law. At the end of a fiscal year any amount of money in the fund determined by the county governing body to be in excess of the requirements of the Dog License Fund may be placed in the general fund of the county.
Amended by Laws 1963, c. 309, § 1; Laws 1969, c. 677, § 2; Laws 1973, c. 655, § 5; Laws 1977, c. 189, § 11.
609.115. Potentially dangerous dog; damage; liability
(1) As used in this section, "keeper" and "potentially dangerous dog" have the meanings given those terms in ORS 609.035.
(2) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, if a court has determined under ORS 609.990 that a dog is a potentially dangerous dog, and subsequent to that determination the dog causes physical injury to a person or damage to real or personal property, the keeper of the dog is strictly liable to the injured person or property owner for any economic damages resulting from the injury or property damage.
(3) Subsection (2) of this section does not apply if a physical injury is to a person provoking the dog or assaulting the dog's keeper or to a person who trespasses upon premises from which the keeper may lawfully exclude others.
Laws 2005, c. 840, § 1.
609.120. Amended by Laws 1969, c. 677, § 3; repealed by Laws 1977, c. 802, § 15
As used in ORS 609.135 to 609.190, "livestock" means ratites, psittacines, horses, mules, jackasses, cattle, llamas, alpacas, sheep, goats, swine, domesticated fowl and any fur-bearing animal bred and maintained commercially or otherwise, within pens, cages and hutches.
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 11.
609.130. Repealed by Laws 1977, c. 802, § 15
609.135. Application of ORS 609.156, 609.162 and 609.168
(1) ORS 609.156, 609.162 and 609.168 apply in every county having a dog control program.
(2) Except as provided under subsections (1) and (3) of this section, ORS 609.135 to 609.190 apply in every county having a dog control program except as otherwise provided by county charter or ordinance. Except as provided under subsections (1) and (3) of this section, the provisions of ORS 609.135 to 609.190 do not limit the powers of cities or counties to adopt ordinances and regulations relating to the control of dogs.
(3) ORS 609.162 (2) does not eliminate or restrict the ability of a county to adopt a charter or ordinance that is contrary to ORS 609.163. Notwithstanding any county charter or ordinance, a notice of determination sent under ORS 609.156 (2) or after a full and fair hearing shall be sent as provided under ORS 609.158 (4).
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 9a.
609.140. Action by owner of damaged livestock
(1) The owner of any livestock which has been damaged by being injured, chased, wounded or killed by any dog shall have a cause of action against the owner of such dog for the damages resulting therefrom, including double the value of any livestock killed and double the amount of any damage to the livestock.
(2) If one or more of several dogs owned by different persons participate in damaging any livestock, the owners of the respective dogs shall be jointly and severally liable under this section. The owners of dogs jointly or severally liable under this section have a right of contribution among themselves. The right exists only in favor of an owner who has paid more than the pro rata share of the owner, determined by dividing the total damage by the number of dogs involved, of the common liability, and the total recovery of the owner is limited to the amount paid by the owner in excess of the pro rata share of the owner.
(3) An action brought under this section may be tried as an action at law in any court of competent jurisdiction.
(4) As used in this section:
(a) "Owner" means the head of the family of the home where the dog is cared for at the time of the damage.
(b) "Head of the family" means any person who has charge or manages the affairs of a collective body of persons residing together, the relations between whom are of a permanent and domestic character.
Amended by Laws 1973, c. 655, § 7; Laws 1975, c. 749, § 1.
609.150. Destruction of dog that harms or chases livestock, exemptions
(1) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, any dog, whether licensed or not, which, while off the premises owned or under control of its owner, kills, wounds, or injures any livestock not belonging to the master of such dog, is a public nuisance and may be killed immediately by any person. However, nothing in this section applies to any dog acting under the direction of its master, or the agents or employees of such master.
(2) If any dog, not under the control of its owner or keeper, is found chasing or feeding upon the warm carcass of livestock not the property of such owner or keeper it shall be deemed, prima facie, as engaged in killing, wounding or injuring livestock.
(3) No person shall kill any dog for killing, wounding, injuring or chasing chickens upon a public place, highway or within the corporate limits of any city.
Amended by Laws 1975, c. 749, § 6.
609.153. Education of dog owners
(1) The State Department of Agriculture shall coordinate the development of a program to educate dog owners concerning their responsibility to avoid conflicts between dogs and livestock. The program shall include the publication of a brochure. A discussion of penalties and other measures provided for under ORS 609.162 and 609.163 shall be included in the brochure.
(2) The obligation of the department under subsection (1) of this section is limited to the extent of any moneys specifically appropriated for that purpose or available from donations, gifts and grants by private or other nonstate sources.
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 10.
609.155. Impoundment of dogs for harming or chasing livestock; tests to determine fact; costs
(1) In a county with a dog control program, upon finding a dog engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock or upon receipt from a complainant of evidence that a dog has been so engaged, the dog control officer or other law enforcement officer shall impound the dog.
(2) If there is reason to believe that reasonable testing of a dog impounded pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, including but not limited to a fecal examination or examination of the teeth of the dog, will provide substantial further evidence as to whether the dog has been engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock, the county shall provide for the administration of the tests by a licensed veterinarian.
(3)(a) After the completion of tests administered pursuant to subsection (2) of this section and allowing an opportunity for a hearing under ORS 609.158, the county shall determine whether the dog has been engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock. If the county determines that the dog has been so engaged, the county shall take action as provided under ORS 609.162 and 609.163. In addition to any action taken under ORS 609.162 and 609.163, the county may require that the dog owner pay the costs of keeping and testing the dog during impoundment. If the county determines that the dog has not been engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock, the dog shall be released to its owner and, if the dog had been impounded upon receipt of evidence from a complainant, the complainant shall pay the costs of keeping and testing the dog during the impoundment.
(b) Notwithstanding ORS 609.090, a dog impounded pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall not be released until a determination is made by the county pursuant to this subsection.
Laws 1975, c. 749, § 4; Laws 1977, c. 802, § 9; Laws 1999, c. 756, § 20.
609.156. Opportunity of dog owner to request hearing
(1) Prior to making a determination whether a dog has killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock, a county shall provide an opportunity for the dog owner to receive a hearing. The county shall send notice of the opportunity to request a hearing in a manner that is reasonably calculated, under all the circumstances, to apprise the dog owner of the specific behavior and incident alleged and the possible penalties, and to provide the dog owner with a fair opportunity for making the hearing request.
(2) A dog owner must cause a hearing request to be delivered to the county not later than the 14th day following the sending of notice under subsection (1) of this section. If a dog owner does not make a timely request for a hearing, the dog owner is conclusively presumed to have admitted the matter alleged and the county may immediately take action under ORS 609.162 and 609.163. The county shall send notice of its determination in the manner provided under ORS 609.158 (4).
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 2.
609.157. Laws 1975, c. 749, § 5; Laws 1999, c. 756, § 21; renumbered 609.161 in 1999
609.158. Hearings; notice of determination to owner; reexamination
(1) A hearing may be conducted and a determination whether a dog has killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock may be made by the county governing body or any members thereof, the dog control board or any members thereof or a county hearings officer.
(2) Notwithstanding ORS 9.160 and 9.320, the county may choose to be represented at the hearing by any employee of the county. If the employee is not an attorney, the employee shall not present legal argument, examine or cross-examine witnesses, present rebuttal evidence or give legal advice to the governing body, dog control board or hearings officer conducting the hearing.
(3) The person presiding at the hearing shall ensure that the record developed at the hearing shows a full and fair inquiry into the facts necessary to determine the matter alleged. A determination made by a county following a hearing must be upon consideration of the whole record and supported by reliable, probative and substantial evidence.
(4) The county shall notify the dog owner of its determination and of any civil penalties or other measures imposed by delivering or mailing a copy to the dog owner or, if applicable, the attorney of the dog owner.
(5) If a hearing is not conducted by a majority of the county governing body, the owner may request that the county governing body reexamine the determination. If the county governing body does not grant the request for reexamination within 14 days, the request shall be deemed denied. A county governing body may not reexamine a determination if a petition for judicial review of the determination has been filed.
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 3.
609.160. Amended by Laws 1975, c. 499, § 2; Laws 1999, c. 756, § 22; renumbered 609.169 in 1999
609.161. Disputable presumption that dog harms or chases livestock
For purposes of ORS 609.135 to 609.190, a disputable presumption shall arise that a dog has been engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock if:
(1) The dog is found chasing livestock not the property of the owner of the dog in an area where freshly damaged livestock are found;
(2) The dog is found feeding upon a warm carcass of a livestock animal;
(3) An examination of the dog's feces indicates ingestion of portions of the anatomy or covering of the anatomy of livestock by the dog; or
(4) Portions of the anatomy or covering of the anatomy of livestock are found on the teeth of the dog, unless the dog is regularly used for the purpose of herding sheep.
Formerly 609.157.
609.162. Guidelines for imposing reasonable measures, civil penalties or other sanctions
(1) If a county determines under ORS 609.156 (2) or after a full and fair hearing that a dog has engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock, the county shall take action in accordance with the following guidelines:
(a) If the dog has engaged in chasing livestock and has not previously killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock:
(A) The county shall take reasonable measures to prevent a recurrence. Reasonable measures include, but are not limited to, requiring that the dog owner take specific measures to adequately confine the dog and provide a notarized written pledge that the owner will prevent the dog from chasing livestock again; and
(B) The county may impose a civil penalty of not more than $500.
(b) If the dog has engaged in chasing livestock and has previously killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock, or if the dog has engaged in wounding or injuring livestock and has not previously killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock, the county shall impose a civil penalty of not less than $250 and not more than $1,000. In addition to imposing the civil penalty, the county may:
(A) Require the dog owner to surrender the dog for adoption by a new owner approved by the county;
(B) Require the owner to remove the dog to a location where, in the opinion of the county, the dog does not present a threat to livestock; or
(C) Require that the dog be put to death in a humane manner. Before requiring that a dog be put to death under this subparagraph, the county shall make specific findings on the record that other measures are not available, are not adequate to remedy the problem or are otherwise unsuitable.
(c) If the dog has engaged in wounding or injuring livestock and has previously killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock, or if the dog has engaged in killing livestock and has not previously killed livestock, the county shall impose a civil penalty of not less than $500 and not more than $1,000. In addition to imposing the civil penalty, the county shall:
(A) Require the dog owner to remove the dog to a location where, in the opinion of the county, the dog does not present a threat to livestock; or
(B) Require that the dog be put to death in a humane manner.
(d) If the dog has engaged in killing livestock and the dog has previously killed livestock, the county shall impose a civil penalty of not less than $500 and not more than $1,000. In addition to imposing the civil penalty, the county shall require that the dog be put to death in a humane manner.
(2) In establishing the history of a dog for purposes of this section, or the history of an owner for purposes of ORS 609.163, a county shall consider all known determinations involving the dog or owner by any court, or by a governing body, official or agency of any local or state government, without regard to where or when the incident occurred.
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 5.
609.163. Enhanced penalties for habitual violators
(1) If a county assesses a civil penalty under ORS 609.162 against a dog owner who has previously been assessed a civil penalty, fine or forfeiture based upon the killing, wounding, injuring or chasing of livestock in an incident not involving the same dog or dogs as in the matter being determined, the county shall assess an additional civil penalty of not less than $250 and not more than $1,000.
(2) If a county assesses a civil penalty under ORS 609.162 against a dog owner who has previously been assessed two or more civil penalties, fines or forfeitures, or a combination thereof, based upon the killing, wounding, injuring or chasing of livestock in two or more incidents not involving the same dog or dogs as in the matter being determined, the county shall assess an additional civil penalty of not less than $1,000 and not more than $5,000. A penalty under this subsection is in lieu of a civil penalty under subsection (1) of this section.
(3) In addition to any other civil penalty under this section or ORS 609.162, if a dog that kills, wounds, injures or chases livestock is not licensed as required, the county may assess a civil penalty of not more than $1,000. A civil penalty imposed under this subsection shall prevent imposition of a fine under ORS 609.990 for violation of ORS 609.100.
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 6.
(1) A determination issued under ORS 609.156 or 609.158 is subject to judicial review by the circuit court for the county making the determination as provided under ORS 34.010 to 34.100. Notwithstanding ORS 34.070, filing a petition for review shall automatically stay execution of the determination made by the county.
(2) Notwithstanding ORS 34.030, a petition for review must be filed no later than the 21st day following the date on which the county delivered or mailed its determination in accordance with ORS 609.158 (4). The filing of a request for reexamination under ORS 609.158 (5) does not act to toll the time for filing a petition for judicial review. However, if a county governing body reexamines the determination, the time for filing a petition for judicial review shall be extended through the 21st day following the date that the result of the reexamination is delivered or mailed.
(3) If the court reverses the decision of the county, the court shall make special findings of fact based upon the evidence in the record and conclusions of law indicating clearly all aspects in which the county's procedure or determination was in error.
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 4.
609.166. Penalized dog owner record
(1) When a civil penalty is assessed against a dog owner under ORS 609.162 or 609.163, the county shall supply the State Department of Agriculture with information identifying the dog owner. The department shall supply the counties with forms for recording the information.
(2) The department shall maintain the record of a penalized dog owner for a reasonable period and shall make the record available to any county upon request.
(3) The county and the department may charge reasonable fees to the dog owner to cover the cost of conducting and administering the dog owner information program.
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 8.
609.167. Nature of penalty; recordation of penalty into lien record book; action for damages
(1) Moneys collected from a dog owner under ORS 609.162 or 609.163 shall be deposited in the county treasury.
(2) A civil penalty under ORS 609.162 or 609.163 is a penalty against the person owning the dog at the time that the dog killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock. The penalty may not be transferred to a subsequent owner of the dog.
(3) When a county assesses a civil penalty under ORS 609.162 or 609.163, if the amount of penalty is not paid within 21 days after delivery or mailing of the determination, the county may record the penalty with the county clerk of any county of this state. The clerk shall thereupon record in the County Clerk Lien Record the name of the person incurring the penalty. However, the county shall not record a penalty with a county clerk while a request for reexamination or petition for judicial review is pending.
(4) In addition to any other remedy provided by law, recording an order in the County Clerk Lien Record pursuant to this section has the effect provided for in ORS 205.125 and 205.126, and the order may be enforced as provided in ORS 205.125 and 205.126.
(5) Imposition of a civil penalty under ORS 609.162 or 609.163 does not prevent the bringing of an action for damages under ORS 609.140 or 609.190. A determination by the county that a dog has killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock is prima facie evidence of the matter in a subsequent action under ORS 609.140 but not in an action under ORS 609.190.
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 7.
609.168. Microchip identification
(1) A county shall implant an identifying microchip into a dog described in ORS 609.162 that is not put to death. Implantation shall be made prior to any adoption or relocation of the dog. The State Department of Agriculture, by rule, shall prescribe standards for microchip implantation. The county making an implantation shall forward the microchip information and the record of the dog to the department.
(2) The department shall maintain the record for a dog implanted with a microchip under this section for a reasonable period and shall make the record available to any county upon request.
(3) The county and the department may charge reasonable fees to the dog owner to cover the cost of conducting and administering the microchip implantation program.
Laws 1999, c. 756, § 9.
609.169. Prohibition of keeping dog with knowledge that it has harmed livestock; exemptions
(1) Except as provided under subsections (2) and (3) of this section, a person may not own, harbor or keep any dog with knowledge that it has killed, wounded or injured livestock within this state or, with knowledge that, while off the premises owned or under the control of its owner and while not acting under the direction of its master or the agents or employees of such master, it has killed or seriously injured any person.
(2) A person is not prohibited from owning, harboring or keeping a dog pursuant to a county approved adoption or relocation of a dog under ORS 609.162 (1)(b) or (c).
(3) A person is not prohibited from owning, harboring or keeping a dog, with knowledge that it has killed or wounded chickens, unless the dog owner fails to pay full damages for the killed or wounded chickens within three days after receipt of a demand for those damages from the owner of the chickens.
Formerly 609.160.
609.170. Claim by owner of livestock; affidavits
In a county with a dog control program the owner of any livestock killed, wounded, chased or injured by any dog may, within 10 days after the killing, wounding, chasing or injuring occurred, or became known to the owner, present to the dog control board or county governing body a verified statement containing a full account of the incident, stating in detail the amount of damage claimed on account thereof, and the name and address of the owner or keeper of the dog, if known. The claim shall be supported by the affidavit of at least one disinterested person as to all material facts contained in it.
Amended by Laws 1953, c. 640, § 2; Laws 1975, c. 749, § 7; Laws 1977, c. 802, § 10.
609.180. Hearing and payment of claims
All claims presented as provided by ORS 609.170 shall be heard at the first regular session of the dog control board or county governing body after their presentation, or as soon thereafter as may be practicable. If the board or governing body determines that any livestock has been damaged by being killed, wounded, injured or chased, it shall file and enter a record of the value of the livestock and order a warrant drawn for the amount of damages thus found, or any portion thereof that it considers just, to be paid by the county treasurer out of the Dog License Fund. A livestock owner may refuse to accept the tendered payment and may withdraw a claim filed under ORS 609.170. If the dog control board or county governing body considers the claim unjust, it shall disallow the claim and enter that fact upon its record. A claim may not be allowed where it appears that the damage complained of was caused by a dog owned or controlled by the claimant or the agent of the claimant.
Amended by Laws 1975, c. 749, § 8; Laws 1977, c. 802, § 11; Laws 1999, c. 756, § 23.
609.190. Subrogation of county; collection of damages by district attorney
In each case where a claim against the Dog License Fund of any county has been paid by the dog control board or county governing body, the county shall be subrogated to all the rights of the livestock owner against the dog owner for damages. The district attorney shall proceed promptly, in a lawful way, to collect for those damages. Any money so collected shall be paid over immediately to the treasurer of the county and credited to the Dog License Fund.
Amended by Laws 1975, c. 749, § 9; Laws 1977, c. 802, § 12; Laws 1999, c. 756, § 24.
Notwithstanding the provisions of ORS chapters 496, 497 and 498 relating to wildlife, and ORS 609.305 to 609.335 and 609.992 relating to exotic animals, a city or county may prohibit by ordinance the keeping of wildlife, as defined in ORS 496.004, and may prohibit by ordinance the keeping of exotic animals as defined in ORS 609.305.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1977, c. 802, § 3; Laws 1985, c. 437, § 9.
(1) Any member of the family Felidae not indigenous to Oregon, except the species Felis catus (domestic cat);
(2) Any nonhuman primate;
(3) Any nonwolf member of the family Canidae not indigenous to Oregon, except the species Canis familiaris (domestic dog);
(4) Any bear, except the black bear (Ursus americanus); and
(5) Any member of the order Crocodylia.
CREDIT(S)
609.309. Policy on regulation of exotic animals
It is the policy of this state to protect the public against health and safety risks that exotic animals pose to the community, ensure the health, welfare and safety of exotic animals and ensure the security of facilities in which exotic animals are kept, so as to avoid undue physical or financial risk to the public.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1985, c. 437, § 1; Laws 1999, c. 699, § 4; Laws 2009, c. 492, § 2, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
609.310. Laws 1963, c. 217, § 1; repealed by Laws 1977, c. 802, § 15
609.312. Provision of informational materials required
A person who sells an exotic animal must, prior to accepting the offer to purchase, provide the prospective purchaser of the exotic animal with informational material approved by the State Department of Agriculture regarding the care, husbandry, health and nutritional needs of the exotic animal. This section does not allow the sale of an exotic animal to a person located in this state other than an entity described in ORS 609.345.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1999, c. 699, § 2; Laws 2009, c. 492, § 3, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
609.315. Permit requirement exceptions - 609.315. Renumbered 609.345 in 2009 by the Legislative Counsel.
609.319. Permits required - Renumbered 609.341 in 2009 by the Legislative Counsel
609.320. Laws 1963, c. 217, § 2; repealed by Laws 1977, c. 802, § 15
609.325. Conditions for keeping exotic animal
Any person who keeps an exotic animal shall keep the animal under conditions of confinement or control that, given the nature of the animal, would be imposed by a reasonable and prudent keeper to avoid physical or financial risk to the public as a result of escape of the animal or otherwise.
Laws 1985, c. 437, § 4; Laws 1999, c. 699, § 7.
609.329. Liability of keeper for escape or injury
(1) A keeper of an exotic animal is strictly liable for:
(a) Costs incurred by any person or city, county or state agency in attempting to remedy the animal's escape from custody;
(b) Personal injury, property damage or similar loss directly or indirectly caused by the animal's escape from custody, the lack of custody over the animal or efforts to remedy the animal's escape from custody; and
(c) Personal injury directly caused by the animal while in custody.
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, if an injury or escape by an exotic animal is in whole or in part the result of a willful unlawful act by a person other than the keeper, the keeper's liability for damages resulting from the escape or injury is the amount of total damages multiplied by the percentage of fault attributable to the keeper's negligence.
Laws 1985, c. 437, § 5; Laws 1999, c. 699, § 8.
609.330. Laws 1963, c. 217, § 3; repealed by Laws 1977, c. 802, § 15
609.335. Permits; rules; fee; revocation; warning
(1) The State Department of Agriculture shall adopt reasonable rules for issuing permits to keep exotic animals and establishing conditions for keeping the exotic animals. The conditions shall be directed toward ensuring the health, welfare and safety of the exotic animals and, where necessary, the security of facilities in which the exotic animals are kept so as to avoid undue physical or financial risk to the public. The rules shall be no more restrictive upon keepers of exotic animals than is reasonably necessary to carry out the purposes of ORS 609.309.
(2) The department may revoke a permit upon finding a violation of rules adopted under this section, or the department may issue a finding of violation and a warning to remedy the violation by a specified date.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1985, c. 437, § 7; Laws 1999, c. 699, § 9; Laws 2009, c. 492, § 6, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
609.340. Laws 1963, c. 217, § 4; repealed by Laws 1977, c. 802, § 15
(1) A person may not keep an exotic animal in this state unless the person possesses a valid State Department of Agriculture permit for that animal issued prior to January 1, 2010, or issued as provided in ORS 609.351.
(2) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, a person keeping an exotic animal in this state may not breed that animal.
(3) A person may not keep an exotic animal in this state for more than 30 days after the expiration, revocation or suspension of a permit.
(4)(a) A person may breed a small exotic feline if the person:
(A) Is exempt from the requirements for a permit under ORS 609.345; or
(B) Breeds a small exotic feline with a member of the species Felis catus (domestic cat), and:
(i) The person has a permit issued by the State Department of Agriculture under ORS 609.351; and
(ii) The person provides written documentation, including the person's business license, that the person bred the animals for the purpose of retail sale of the offspring.
(b) As used in this subsection, “small exotic feline” means a member of the family Felidae, except the species Felis catus (domestic cat), that weighs 50 pounds or less when fully mature.
CREDIT(S)
Renumbered from 609.319 in 2009 by the Legislative Counsel. Amended by Laws 2009, c. 492, § 5, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
609.345. Permit requirement exceptions
(1) The requirements for a permit in ORS 609.335 and 609.341 do not apply to the following:
(a) A wildlife rehabilitation center operated under a valid permit issued by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission pursuant to ORS 497.308.
(b) A facility operated under a valid license or research facility registration issued by the United States Department of Agriculture pursuant to the federal Animal Welfare Act of 1970 (7 U.S.C. 2133 or 2136).
(c) An exotic animal protection organization, including humane societies and animal shelters, incorporated under ORS chapter 65, that houses an exotic animal at the written request of the state or a state agency for a period not to exceed 30 days.
(d) A law enforcement agency.
(e) A licensed veterinary hospital or clinic.
(f) An educational facility that houses a member of the order Crocodylia pursuant to a written request of the state, a local government or a state agency stating the need to house the member of the order Crocodylia at the educational facility
(g) A person or organization that takes in an exotic animal in an emergency situation but that does not otherwise qualify for an exemption under this section. The person or organization may keep the exotic animal for not more than 48 hours during which time the person or organization must make a good faith effort to contact a law enforcement agency, the State Department of Agriculture or a wildlife rehabilitation center described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.
(h) A person with a disability as defined in 42 U.S.C. 12102(2)(A) who possesses a service monkey if:
(A) The person presents, at the request of the State Department of Agriculture, written proof from a physician licensed under ORS 677.100 to 677.228 that the person has a disability and that the service monkey performs specific tasks for the benefit of the person with the disability;
(B) The service monkey was obtained from, and trained at, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities; and
(C) The person complies with any requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act relating to service animals.
(2) As used in subsection (1)(h) of this section, “service monkey” means a nonhuman primate of the genus Cebus that is trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability.
Credits
Renumbered from 609.315 in 2009 by the Legislative Counsel. Amended by Laws 2017, c. 409, § 17, eff. Jan. 1, 2018.
609.350. Laws 1963, c. 217, § 5; repealed by Laws 1977, c. 802, § 15
609.351. Permit to keep exotic animals owned prior to January 1, 2010
(1) The State Department of Agriculture may issue a permit to a person to keep an exotic animal if the person applies for the permit within 90 days after January 1, 2010.
(2) The department may, within one year of January 1, 2010, issue a permit to a person to possess an exotic animal if the person submits satisfactory proof to the department that the person possessed the exotic animal prior to January 1, 2010 and that the person meets requirements of rules adopted by the department under ORS 609.335.
(3) The department may charge a fee to issue or renew a permit under this section. The fee may not exceed $100. Each permit or renewal of a permit is valid for two years.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Laws 2009, c. 492, § 8, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
609.355. Permit to keep exotic animals in registered facilities
The State Department of Agriculture may issue a permit to a person to keep an exotic animal if:
(1) The person operated a facility under a valid license or research facility registration issued by the United States Department of Agriculture pursuant to the federal Animal Welfare Act of 1970 (7 U.S.C. 2133 or 2136);
(2) The person does not renew the person's license or registration described in subsection (1) of this section;
(3) The person applies for the permit within 90 days after the renewal date of the license or registration; and
(4) The person meets the requirements of rules adopted by the department under ORS 609.335.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Laws 2009, c. 492, § 9, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
609.405. Methods for destruction of dogs and cats
(1) No city or county or any facility with which the city or county has contracted to perform animal control functions and no humane society shall cause a dog or cat to be destroyed except by lethal injection of sodium pentobarbital or other substance approved by the Oregon State Veterinary Medical Examining Board.
(2) If a particular dog or cat to be destroyed poses an imminent threat to human or animal life, making use of lethal injection of sodium pentobarbital inappropriate, a reasonable and appropriate alternative may be used. The alternative method may be subject to review by the Oregon State Veterinary Medical Examining Board.
Laws 1985, c. 289, § 2 (1), (2).
609.410. Adoption of dogs or cats used for laboratory research; examination by veterinarian to determine health and safety; liability; reports
(1)(a) A research facility that uses dogs or cats for laboratory research, before euthanizing a dog or cat that is no longer needed for research purposes, shall offer the dog or cat for adoption, provided that euthanizing the dog or cat is not required for health or safety reasons or is not necessary to complete laboratory research.
(b) The research facility shall use a veterinarian or similarly qualified staff to determine whether the dog or cat is healthy and safe for adoption.
(c) The research facility may consider and determine if other animals used by the research facility are adoptable.
(d) To carry out the duties described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, a research facility may:
(A) Establish and maintain a private adoption process.
(B) Offer the dog or cat to an animal shelter approved by the research facility that is willing to accept the dog or cat, if the research facility is unable to place the dog or cat through its private adoption process.
(C) Enter into a written agreement with an animal shelter to facilitate the adoption process.
(2) A research facility that provides a dog or cat to an animal shelter pursuant to subsection (1) of this section is immune from civil liability for or resulting from the transfer of the dog or cat, provided that the research facility acted in good faith concerning the health and physical condition of the dog or cat.
(3)(a) Not later than December 31 of each year, all research facilities described in subsection (1) of this section that are not public bodies as defined in ORS 192.311 shall submit to the Secretary of State an annual report that includes the following information for the preceding year:
(A) The total number of dogs and cats owned by the research facility;
(B) The total number of dogs and cats that are used for research that is conducted at the facility;
(C) The total number of dogs and cats released to animal shelters for adoption;
(D) The name and address of each animal shelter to which a dog or cat was released; and
(E) The name and address of each animal shelter with which the research facility has entered into an agreement under subsection (1) of this section.
(b) Reports received by the Secretary of State under this subsection are confidential and exempt from disclosure under ORS 192.311 to 192.478 except that the Secretary of State shall make the aggregate data available to the public upon request.
(4) As used in this section:
(a) “Animal shelter” means an organization or facility, in this or another state, that:
(A) Is maintained by or under contract with a state, county or city or is tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; and
(B) Is operated for the primary purpose of:
(i) Providing shelter and other care for lost, homeless or injured animals; or
(ii) Placing animals into permanent homes or rescue organizations.
(b) “Laboratory research” means research, tests or experiments conducted for educational, scientific, medical or experimental purposes.
(c) “Research facility” means any institution of higher education or any facility, whether privately or publicly owned, leased or operated, where laboratory research is performed.
Credits
Added by Laws 2019, c. 374, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2020.
609.411. Preemption of ORS 609.410
Federal requirements supersede any inconsistent provisions of ORS 609.410 to the extent of the inconsistency.
Credits
Added by Laws 2019, c. 374, § 2, eff. Jan. 1, 2020.
609.415. Record-keeping requirements; licensing requirements; inspections; civil penalties
(1) As used in this section and ORS 609.420:
(a) “Animal” means any nonhuman mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian or fish.
(b) “Animal rescue entity” means an individual or organization, including but not limited to an animal control agency, humane society, animal shelter, animal sanctuary or boarding kennel not subject to ORS 167.374, but excluding a veterinary facility, that keeps, houses and maintains in the individual's or organization's legal custody 10 or more animals, whether physically located at a facility operated by the individual or organization or kept, housed or maintained elsewhere, and that solicits or accepts donations in any form.
(c) “Enforcing agency” means the State Veterinarian.
(2) Any animal rescue entity shall comply with all of the following record-keeping requirements:
(a) Maintain a record for each animal that identifies:
(A) The date of birth for the animal or, if the date of birth is unknown, the approximate age of the animal;
(B) The date the animal rescue entity acquired possession, control or charge of the animal and the source of the animal;
(C) The number of offspring the animal produced while in the possession or control of the animal rescue entity, if applicable;
(D) The disposition the animal rescue entity makes of each animal possessed by, controlled by or in the charge of the animal rescue entity, including the date of disposition, manner of disposition and the name and address for any individual or organization taking possession, control or charge of an animal;
(E) The source of the animal, date of acquisition, age, sex, breed type and weight of the animal at intake; and
(F) A photograph of the animal taken within 24 hours of intake by the animal rescue entity.
(b) Permit an authorized representative of the enforcing agency to inspect records of the animal rescue entity required by this subsection and furnish reports and information required by the enforcing agency, as provided under ORS 609.420.
(3) An animal rescue entity shall comply with the following licensing requirements:
(a) The entity shall obtain a license issued by the enforcing agency in accordance with this section and any rules or policies adopted by the enforcing agency; and
(b) The entity shall pay a reasonable fee, as determined by the enforcing agency, for a license or an annual renewal of the license to provide for the actual cost of enforcing this section and ORS 609.420.
(4) The enforcing agency may not issue or renew a license under this section unless the animal rescue entity is in compliance with this section and ORS 609.420.
(5) An animal rescue entity may transfer a license issued under this section to another person with the written consent of the enforcing agency, provided that the transferee otherwise qualifies to be licensed as an animal rescue entity under this section and rules applicable to the transferee and does not have a certified unpaid debt to the state. The transferee shall submit a signed release to the enforcing agency permitting the performance of a background investigation of the transferee, and the enforcing agency shall conduct the background investigation.
(6) An applicant for a license issued under this section shall demonstrate that the animal rescue entity that is the subject of the application complies with all standards imposed under applicable law.
(7) Any animal rescue entity is subject to inspection by the enforcing agency as provided in ORS 609.420.
(8)(a) A violation of this section may result in imposition of civil penalties to be determined by the enforcing agency, including but not limited to impoundment of all animals under the animal rescue's control, the revocation of the animal rescue's license to operate animal rescue operations and a civil penalty of not more than $500 for each violation.
(b) Before a civil penalty may be imposed under this section, the enforcing agency shall adopt rules or policies that:
(A) Ensure that a person who is the subject of an alleged violation receives notice of the allegations and potential imposition of civil penalties;
(B) Allow for an opportunity for a hearing prior to the imposition of civil penalties; and
(C) Allow for the opportunity for judicial review of the imposition of civil penalties.
(9) Moneys raised by the enforcing agency under this section are dedicated to and shall be used for enforcing agency operations undertaken pursuant to this section and ORS 609.420.
Credits
Added by Laws 2013, c. 719, § 10, eff. Aug. 1, 2013. Amended by Laws 2015, c. 267, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2016; Laws 2019, c. 557, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2020.
609.420. Investigation of licensed animal rescue entities
(1) Whenever an authorized representative of an enforcing agency is advised or has reason to believe that an animal rescue entity is operating without a license, the authorized representative may visit and conduct an on-site investigation of the premises of the animal rescue entity. The purpose of an investigation under this section is to determine whether the animal rescue entity is subject to the requirements of ORS 609.415.
(2) At any reasonable time, an authorized representative of an enforcing agency, a law enforcement agency or the United States Department of Agriculture may conduct an on-site investigation of the premises of any licensed animal rescue entity to determine whether the entity is in compliance with ORS 609.415.
(3) An authorized representative of the enforcing agency or a law enforcement agency shall conduct an on-site investigation of the premises of any licensed animal rescue entity if the agency receives a complaint about the animal rescue entity related to the failure to comply with the requirements of ORS 609.415 that the agency determines is credible and serious. The investigation by the agency shall be limited to determining if the animal rescue entity has failed to comply with the requirements of ORS 609.415.
(4) Any state agency that receives a complaint about a licensed animal rescue entity shall notify the enforcing agency about the complaint and any subsequent action taken by the state agency based on that complaint.
(5) A licensed animal rescue entity shall permit an authorized representative of the enforcing agency to inspect records of the animal rescue entity and shall furnish any reports and information required by the enforcing agency.
(6) If, during the course of an inspection made under this section, the enforcing agency finds evidence of animal cruelty in violation of ORS 167.310 to 167.351, 167.352, 167.355 or 167.360 to 167.372, the enforcing agency shall seize the evidence and report the violation to law enforcement. Evidence of animal cruelty found through a valid inspection under this section shall be presumed admissible in any subsequent criminal proceeding.
Credits
Added by Laws 2013, c. 719, § 11, eff. Aug. 1, 2013.
As used in ORS 609.500 to 609.520 and 609.994, unless the context requires otherwise:
(1) "Animal control officer" means any person operating under the authority of this state, any unit of local government or the United States Government or pursuant to an agreement with any state or local government authority, for the purpose of:
(a) Providing shelter and other care for lost, homeless or injured animals;
(b) Serving as an information center concerning missing and found animals;
(c) Protecting the public from hazardous or insanitary conditions associated with animals that are running at large; or
(d) Protecting animals from neglect, cruelty or abuse.
(2) "Animal dealer" means any person, whether or not duly licensed or registered under state or federal law, who acquires or maintains possession of a dog or cat with the intention of selling the animal to another person, but does not include:
(a) Any research facility, retail pet store, animal control agency or animal shelter;
(b) Any person who sells the person's companion animal or the offspring of the companion animal;
(c) Any person who receives less than $250 per calendar year for the sale of animals;
(d) Any person who breeds or possesses animals solely for sale to research facilities and does not purchase or accept animals from the public or paid collectors;
(e) Any commercial breeder or distributor who sells animals exclusively for the purpose of private pet ownership;
(f) Any person who receives lost or injured animals for the exclusive purpose of rehabilitating the animals or placing them in private pet ownership;
(g) Any person who breeds or possesses dogs or cats for competition, exhibition, legal sporting events, search and rescue activity or police activity; or
(h) Any person licensed to practice veterinary medicine, surgery or dentistry under ORS chapter 686.
(3) "Animal shelter" means any person operating a facility in this or any other state for the purposes of:
(a) Providing shelter and other care for lost, homeless or injured animals;
(b) Serving as an information center concerning missing and found animals; or
(c) Protecting animals from neglect, cruelty or abuse.
(4) "Companion animal" means a dog or cat possessed by a person, business or other entity for purposes of companionship, security, hunting, herding or providing assistance in relation to a physical disability.
(5) "Person" means a human being, corporation, nonprofit corporation, association, partnership, sole proprietorship or other legal entity.
(6) "Research facility" means any person who:
(a) Investigates or gives instruction concerning the structure or functions of living organisms, the causes, prevention, control or cure of diseases or abnormal conditions of human beings or animals, or the effects of substances on human beings or animals; or
(b) Manufactures or sells products to be used in the prevention, control or cure of diseases or abnormal conditions of human beings or animals, or in the testing of the effects of substances on human beings or animals.
Laws 1991, c. 837, § 2.
609.505. "Crime of unlawfully obtaining dog or cat" defined; affirmative defense
(1) A person commits the crime of unlawfully obtaining a dog or cat if the person:
(a) Is an animal dealer; and
(b) Obtains a companion animal or the offspring of a companion animal from a person who has not raised the companion animal or the offspring of the companion animal on the person's own premises.
(2) Unlawfully obtaining a dog or cat is a Class A misdemeanor.
(3) It is an affirmative defense to a charge of violating subsections (1) and (2) of this section that an animal dealer, having received a companion animal or the offspring of a companion animal in violation of subsections (1) and (2) of this section, delivers the companion animal or the offspring of the companion animal to an animal shelter within 24 hours of acquisition.
Laws 1991, c. 837, §§ 3, 4.
609.510. Establishment and maintenance of records by animal dealers; report to State Department; fee; public inspection of records
(1) Every animal dealer shall establish and maintain records on each dog or cat and the dog's or cat's offspring in the dealer's possession or control, including:
(a) The species, gender, approximate age, color and distinctive markings and breed of the dog or cat;
(b) A photograph of the dog or cat made within 24 hours of acquisition or birth;
(c) The name, address and driver license number or other official state identification number of the person providing the dog or cat;
(d) The date of acquisition or birth of the dog or cat;
(e) The date and nature of disposition of the dog or cat; and
(f) The intended destination of the dog or cat at release.
(2) Within 24 hours of the acquisition or birth of a dog or cat in the possession of any animal dealer, the dealer shall forward, by first class mail or any more expeditious method, the information required by subsection (1) of this section to the State Department of Agriculture and a fee of $1 for each dog or cat reported.
(3) The department shall maintain the reports and provide for public inspection of, and telephone inquiries concerning, the reports during normal business hours.
Laws 1991, c. 837, § 5.
609.515. Required time of possession of animal by dealer
Every animal dealer shall maintain possession of each dog or cat received for a period of at least 10 days after initial receipt of the dog or cat, unless the dealer:
(1) Returns the dog or cat to its rightful owner; or
(2) Delivers the dog or cat to an animal shelter.
Laws 1991, c. 837, § 6.
609.520. Inspection of records; procedure for obtaining animal held by dealer; failure to turn over animal; inspection of facilities
(1)(a) An animal dealer shall permit inspection during normal business hours of companion animal records and the location at which companion animals are kept. The dealer may require documentation that a person seeking to inspect the location is the owner of a companion animal. When making the inspection, the person may be accompanied by an animal control officer. A person may demand inspection only if it is for the purpose of seeking the person's own companion animal. A person is allowed no more than three inspections per week for up to six weeks following the disappearance of the person's companion animal.
(b) The person may prove ownership of a companion animal by providing the dealer with:
(A) Photographs clearly showing the companion animal and any distinguishing markings;
(B) Licensing information;
(C) Veterinary records;
(D) Registration records;
(E) Microchip-implantation records; or
(F) Tattooing records.
(2)(a) When a person claims to be the owner of a companion animal being held by an animal dealer, the animal dealer shall:
(A) Upon proof of ownership and payment by the person of actual direct expenses incurred by the animal dealer in obtaining and caring for the dog or cat, turn the dog or cat over to the person; or
(B) If the animal dealer disputes the identification, or if the amount of expenses cannot be agreed upon, turn the dog or cat over to an animal shelter pending resolution of the dispute.
(b) If the person claiming to be the owner and the animal dealer cannot resolve the dispute within a reasonable length of time, the circuit court for the area in which the dog or cat is located may, upon petition, designate a third party to serve as an impartial adjudicator of the issue. The decision of the third party is final and the dog or cat shall be released accordingly. If the decision is in favor of the person claiming to be the owner, that person shall pay the animal dealer the amount of the actual direct expenses incurred by the animal dealer in obtaining and caring for the dog or cat while the dog or cat was in the possession of the animal dealer. The party losing the dispute shall pay the expenses incurred by the animal shelter in caring for the dog or cat during the pendency of the dispute. No filing or other fees shall apply to the petition to the circuit court. The court shall process the matter as informally and as expeditiously as possible.
(c) An animal dealer who fails to turn a dog or cat over as required by this subsection commits a Class A misdemeanor.
(3) Law enforcement officers or animal control officers may conduct routine inspections of animal dealer facilities during normal business hours to insure compliance with animal control statutes, ordinances and regulations.
Laws 1991, c. 837, § 7; Laws 1995, c. 658, § 110.
609.650. Legislative findings on relation between animal cruelty and domestic violence
The Legislative Assembly finds that:
(1) There is a clear link between animal cruelty and crimes of domestic violence, including child abuse; and
(2) It is in the public interest to enact legislation to encourage the permissive reporting of animal cruelty.
Added by Laws 2007, c. 731, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2008.
As used in ORS 609.654:
(1)(a) “Aggravated animal abuse” means any animal abuse as described in ORS 167.322.
(b) “Aggravated animal abuse” does not include:
(A) Good animal husbandry, as defined in ORS 167.310; or
(B) Any exemption listed in ORS 167.335.
(2) “Law enforcement agency” means:
(a) Any city or municipal police department.
(b) A police department established by a university under ORS 352.121 or 353.125.
(c) Any county sheriff's office.
(d) The Oregon State Police.
(e) A law enforcement division of a county or municipal animal control agency that employs sworn officers.
(f) A humane investigation agency as defined in ORS 181A.340 that employs humane special agents commissioned under ORS 181A.340.
(3) “Public or private official” means:
(a) A physician, including any intern or resident.
(b) A dentist.
(c) A school employee.
(d) A licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.
(e) An employee of the Department of Human Services, Oregon Health Authority, Department of Early Learning and Care, Youth Development Division, the Oregon Youth Authority, a local health department, a community mental health program, a community developmental disabilities program, a county juvenile department, a child-caring agency as defined in ORS 418.205 or an alcohol and drug treatment program.
(f) A peace officer.
(g) A psychologist.
(h) A member of the clergy.
(i) A regulated social worker.
(j) An optometrist.
(k) A chiropractor.
(L) A certified provider of foster care, or an employee thereof.
(m) An attorney.
(n) A naturopathic physician.
(o) A licensed professional counselor.
(p) A licensed marriage and family therapist.
(q) A firefighter or emergency medical services provider.
(r) A court appointed special advocate, as defined in ORS 419A.004.
(s) A child care provider registered or certified under ORS 329A.250 to 329A.450.
(t) A member of the Legislative Assembly.
Credits
Added by Laws 2007, c. 731, § 2, eff. Jan. 1, 2008. Amended by Laws 2009, c. 595, § 990, eff. June 26, 2009; Laws 2009, c. 442, § 42, eff. Jan. 1, 2010; Laws 2011, c. 506, § 44, eff. June 23, 2011, operative Jan. 1, 2012; Laws 2011, c. 703, § 43, eff. Jan. 1, 2012; Laws 2012, c. 67, § 15, eff. March 27, 2012; Laws 2012, c. 37, § 66, eff. March 6, 2012, operative July 1, 2012; Laws 2013, c. 623, § 20, eff. July 19, 2013; Laws 2013, c. 624, § 35, eff. July 19, 2013; Laws 2013, c. 180, § 48, eff. May 16, 2013, operative Jan. 1, 2014; Laws 2015, c. 736, § 105, eff. July 20, 2015, operative Jan. 1, 2016; Laws 2016, c. 106, § 54, eff. April 4, 2016, operative July 1, 2016; Laws 2021, c. 631, § 60, eff. July 27, 2021, operative July 1, 2023; Laws 2022, c. 27, § 18, eff. March 9, 2022, operative Jan. 1, 2023; Laws 2023, c. 554, § 55, eff. July 31, 2023.
609.654. Suspected aggravated animal abuse
(1) Notwithstanding ORS 40.225 to 40.295, a public or private official who has reasonable cause to believe that an animal with which the official has come in contact has suffered aggravated animal abuse, or that any person with whom the official has come in contact has committed aggravated animal abuse, may immediately report the suspected aggravated animal abuse in the manner prescribed in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) A report of suspected aggravated animal abuse authorized under subsection (1) of this section may be made to a law enforcement agency, either orally or in writing, and may include, if known:
(a) The name and description of each animal involved;
(3) A public or private official who acts in good faith and has reasonable grounds for making a report of suspected aggravated animal abuse under this section is not liable in any civil or criminal proceeding brought as a result of making the report.
Added by Laws 2007, c. 731, § 3, eff. Jan. 1, 2008.
609.656. Suspected animal abuse or neglect; reporting by regulated social worker
(1) As used in this section:
(a) “Abuse or neglect” means:
(A) Animal abuse in the second degree as described in ORS 167.315;
(B) Animal abuse in the first degree as described in ORS 167.320;
(C) Aggravated animal abuse in the first degree as described in ORS 167.322;
(D) Animal neglect in the second degree as described in ORS 167.325; or
(E) Animal neglect in the first degree as described in ORS 167.330.
(b) “Regulated social worker” means a person authorized under ORS 675.510 to 675.600 to perform regulated social work.
(2) Notwithstanding ORS 40.250, in addition to the authorization under ORS 609.654 to report aggravated animal abuse in the first degree, a regulated social worker who is an employee of the Department of Human Services and has reasonable cause to believe that an animal with which the social worker has come in contact as an employee of the department has suffered abuse or neglect, or that any person with whom the social worker has come in contact as an employee of the department has committed abuse or neglect of an animal, may immediately report the suspected abuse or neglect in the manner prescribed in subsection (3) of this section.
(3) A report under subsection (2) of this section may be made to a law enforcement agency, either orally or in writing, and may include, if known:
(a) The name and description of each animal involved;
(b) The address and telephone number of the owner or other person responsible for the care of the animal;
(c) The nature and extent of the suspected abuse or neglect;
(d) Any evidence of previous abuse or neglect or of previous aggravated animal abuse in the first degree as described in ORS 167.322;
(e) Any explanation given for the suspected abuse or neglect; and
(f) Any other information that the regulated social worker believes may be helpful in establishing the cause of the suspected abuse or neglect or the identity of a person causing abuse or neglect.
(4) A regulated social worker who acts in good faith and has reasonable grounds for making a report under this section of suspected abuse or neglect is not liable in any civil or criminal proceeding brought as a result of making the report.
Credits
Added by Laws 2015, c. 184, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2016.
609.805. False representation of pedigree; intent; mutilation of certificate or proof of pedigree; violation
(1) No person shall:
(a) By any false representation and with intent to defraud, obtain from any corporation, club, association, society or company organized in whole or in part for the purpose of improving breeds of cattle, horses, sheep, swine or other domestic animals, a false certificate of registration of any such animal in their herd register or other register, or obtain the transfer of any such certificate.
(b) Knowingly and with intent to defraud, give a false pedigree of any such animal.
(c) During the existence of any mortgage on or lien or charge against any such animal, spoliate, mutilate or destroy the registration certificates or proofs of pedigree, or so encumber the same that the animal covered thereby cannot, in connection with the records, rules and regulations of the corporation, club, association, society or company under which the animal is registered, be directly designated thereby.
(2) Violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor.
Credits
Formerly 605.040.
609.815. Ownership of dogs; ratio between dogs and onsite individuals
(1) As used in this section, “dog” means a member of the subspecies Canis lupus familiaris or a hybrid of that subspecies.
(2) A person that possesses, controls or otherwise has charge of at the same time 75 or more dogs shall have one or more individuals on site for at least eight hours each day to care for the dogs. The ratio between dogs and on-site individuals may not be more than 75 dogs to one individual.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Laws 2009, c. 297, § 3, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
609.990. Penalties for ORS 609.060, 609.095, 609.100, 609.169 and 609.405; disposition of dog by court
(1) Violation of ORS 609.060 (2), 609.100 or 609.169 is a Class B violation.
(2) Maintaining a public nuisance in violation of ORS 609.095 (2) or (3) is a Class B violation.
(3)(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, violation of ORS 609.098 is a Class A misdemeanor.
(b) If a dog kills a person, violation of ORS 609.098 is a Class C felony.
(c) If a keeper violates ORS 609.098, the court shall order the dangerous dog killed in a humane manner.
(4) Violation of ORS 609.405 constitutes a Class C misdemeanor.
(5) In addition to any fine or sentence imposed under this section, a court may order a person who violates ORS 609.060 (2), 609.095, 609.098, 609.100, 609.169 or 609.405 to pay restitution for any physical injury, death or property damage caused by the dog as a result of the keeper's violation of ORS 609.060 (2), 609.095, 609.098, 609.100, 609.169 or 609.405. The court may also order the person to pay the cost of keeping the dog in impoundment.
(6) In addition to any fine imposed or restitution ordered of a keeper for a violation of ORS 609.060 (2), 609.095, 609.100, 609.169 or 609.405, the court may impose reasonable restrictions on the keeping of the dog to ensure the safety or health of the public. The keeper must pay the cost of complying with reasonable restrictions. As used in this subsection, “reasonable restrictions” may include, but is not limited to, sterilization. If the dog is a potentially dangerous dog, the court may order the dog killed in a humane manner. In determining whether to have the dog killed, the court shall give consideration to the factors described in ORS 609.093 and issue written findings on those factors.
(7) Notwithstanding ORS 19.270 and 19.330, subject to periodic advance payment of the cost of keeping the dog in impoundment, the killing of a dog pursuant to an order under subsection (3) or (6) of this section may not be carried out during the period that the order is subject to the appeal process. Unless otherwise ordered by the Court of Appeals, the dog may be killed during the appeal period if the keeper fails to maintain advance payment of the cost of keeping the dog impounded.
(8) If a court orders a dog killed under subsection (6) of this section and the keeper does not make the dog available for that purpose, the court may issue a search warrant for a property upon probable cause to believe that the dog is located at that property.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Laws 1963, c. 237, § 2; Laws 1965, c. 499, § 2; Laws 1967, c. 495, § 3; Laws 1973, c. 655, § 6; Laws 1977, c. 802, § 13; subsection (3) enacted as Laws 1985, c. 289, § 2 (3); Laws 1999, c. 658, §§ 12, 12a; Laws 1999, c. 1051, §§ 208, 322b; Laws 2001, c. 636, § 11; Laws 2005, c. 840, § 8; Laws 2011, c. 597, § 249, eff. July 1, 2011, operative Jan. 1, 2012.
609.992. Penalties for ORS 609.319
(1) Violation of ORS 609.319 is a Class B misdemeanor.
(2) In addition to and not in lieu of any jail sentence or fine it may impose, a court may require a defendant convicted under ORS 609.319 to forfeit any rights of the defendant in any exotic animal kept in violation thereof and to repay reasonable costs incurred by any person, city, county or state agency in caring for the animal prior to judgment.
(3) When the court orders the defendant's rights in the exotic animal to be forfeited, the court may further order that those rights be given over to an appropriate person or agency demonstrating a willingness to accept and care for the animal or to the county or an appropriate animal care agency for further disposition in accordance with accepted practices for humane treatment of animals. This subsection shall not constitute or authorize any limitation upon the right of the person or agency to whom rights are granted to resell or otherwise make disposition of the animal. A transfer of rights under this subsection constitutes a transfer of ownership.
Laws 1985, c. 437, § 6.
609.994. Penalties for ORS 609.510 to 609.520; cause of action for damages; injunctions
(1) Violation of ORS 609.510, 609.515 or 609.520 is a specific fine violation punishable by a fine of not more than $50,000.
(2) A person has a cause of action for the recovery of compensatory damages from any person violating ORS 164.055 (1)(e), 164.085, 609.510, 609.515 or 609.520. In the action, the minimum pecuniary value of any companion animal is $250.
(3) The circuit court for each county has the authority to enjoin any violation of ORS 609.510, 609.515 or 609.520, to issue warrants and to take such other actions as equity or justice may require.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1991, c. 837, § 8; Laws 1995, c. 658, § 111; Laws 2011, c. 597, § 250, eff. July 1, 2011, operative Jan. 1, 2012.
Title 9. Mortgages and Liens. Chapter 87. Statutory Liens. Possessory Chattel Liens.
87.172. Retention of chattel prior to foreclosure, limitations
(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person claiming a lien under ORS 87.152 to 87.162 must retain the chattel that is subject to the lien for at least 60 days after the lien attaches to the chattel before foreclosing the lien.
(2) Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, a person claiming a lien under ORS 87.152 for cost of care, materials and services bestowed on an animal must retain the animal for at least 30 days after the lien attaches to the animal before foreclosing the lien. If the lien is for veterinary services to a domestic animal, the person must retain the animal for at least five days after the lien attaches to the animal before foreclosing the lien. As used in this subsection, “domestic animal” means an animal that is not livestock as defined in ORS 72.1030 and for which the veterinary services were requested by an owner or other person with apparent authority regarding care of the animal.
(3) A person claiming a lien under ORS 87.152 for the cost of removing, towing or storage of a vehicle that is appraised by a person who holds a certificate issued under ORS 819.480 to have a value of:
(a) $1,000 or less but more than $500, must retain the vehicle at least 30 days after the lien attaches to the vehicle before foreclosing the lien.
(b) $500 or less, must retain the vehicle at least 15 days after the lien attaches to the vehicle before foreclosing the lien.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1975, c. 648, § 7; Laws 1979, c. 401, § 1; Laws 1981, c. 861, § 1; Laws 1983, c. 338, § 881; Laws 1993, c. 326, § 9; Laws 1995, c. 758, § 18; Laws 2005, c. 738, § 7; Laws 2011, c. 399, § 2, eff. Jan. 1, 2012.
Title 41. Wildlife. Chapter 498. Hunting, Angling and Trapping Regulations; Miscellaneous Wildlife Protective Measures. Hunting and Trapping Restrictions.
498.102. Use of dogs for hunting or tracking game mammals or birds
(1) Any dog that is not wearing a collar with a license number thereon in compliance with ORS 609.100 that is found unlawfully hunting, running or tracking any game mammal or game bird may be killed at such time by any person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws.
(2) If a dog that is found unlawfully hunting, running or tracking any game mammal or game bird is wearing a collar with a license number thereon in compliance with ORS 609.100, the owner of the dog shall be notified by any person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws. If the owner or reputed owner of the dog disclaims ownership of the dog, the dog may be killed at such time by a person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws.
(3) If the owner of a dog has been notified that the dog has been found unlawfully hunting, running or tracking game mammals or game birds and thereafter fails to prevent the dog from unlawfully hunting, running or tracking game mammals or game birds, such dog may be killed by any person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws.
(4) No person shall permit any dog the person owns to unlawfully hunt, run or track any game mammal or game bird.
Laws 1973, c. 723, § 84.
498.106. Hunting dog competitive field trials
Competitive field trials for hunting dogs may be held at such times and places and under such conditions as the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may prescribe by rule.
CREDIT(S)
Laws 1973, c. 723, § 85.
498.164. Unlawful to take black bear or cougar using dogs or bait; exceptions; suspension of hunting license
(1) Except as provided in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, a person may not use bait to attract or take black bears or use one or more dogs to hunt or pursue black bears or cougars.
(2) Nothing in subsection (1) of this section prohibits the use of bait or one or more dogs by employees or agents of county, state or federal agencies while acting in their official capacities.
(3) Nothing in subsection (1) of this section prohibits the use of bait or dogs by persons for the taking of black bears or cougars in accordance with the provisions of ORS 498.012 relating to taking wildlife that is causing damage.
(4) Any person who violates subsection (1) of this section commits a Class A misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall in addition to appropriate criminal penalties have the person's privilege to apply for any hunting license suspended for a period of five years for a first offense and permanently suspended for any subsequent offense.
(5) For the purposes of this section, “bait” means any material placed for the purpose of attracting or attempting to attract bears.
Credits
Laws 1995, c. 4, § 1; Laws 2003, c. 248, § 2, eff. June 6, 2003; Laws 2007, c. 675, §§ 1, 2, eff. Jan. 1, 2008; Laws 2013, c. 376, § 2, eff. Jan. 1, 2014; Laws 2013, c. 376, § 3, eff. Jan. 1, 2014, operative Jan. 2, 2019; Laws 2021, c. 97, § 64, eff. Jan. 1, 2022.
Title 50. Trade Regulations and Practices. Chapter 646A. Trade Regulation. Sales (Retail Pet Stores).
646A.075. Sale of dogs by retail pet stores; requisite information
(<Text of section operative until Sept. 1, 2028. See, also, text of section 646A.075 operative Sept. 1, 2028.>
<Text subject to final change by the Oregon Office of the Legislative Counsel.>
(1) As used in this section:
(a) “Animal rescue entity” has the meaning given that term in ORS 609.415.
(b) “Cat” means a member of the species Felis catus.
(c) “Dog” means a member of the subspecies Canis lupus familiaris or a hybrid of that subspecies.
(d) “Litter” means one or more dogs, sold individually or together, that are all or part of a group of dogs born to the same mother at the same time.
(e)(A) “Retail pet store” means a retail establishment open to the public, either by appointment or during regular business hours, that sells or offers to sell pet animals or food, supplies or accessories for pet animals.
(B) “Retail pet store” does not include:
(i) An animal rescue entity; or
(ii) A person that sells or offers to sell only dogs or cats that the person:
(I) Breeds or raises; or
(II) Keeps primarily for the purpose of reproduction.
(f) “Sell” means to exchange or offer to exchange for valuable consideration.
(2)(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, a retail pet store may not sell or offer to sell a dog or cat.
(b) If a retail pet store sold or offered to sell dogs or cats before the effective date of this 2023 Act, the retail pet store may continue to sell or offer to sell dogs or cats after the effective date of this 2023 Act if the retail pet store:
(A) Makes the offer to sell or conducts the sale at the physical address at which the retail pet store last sold a dog or cat before the effective date of this 2023 Act; and
(B) Did not have a change of ownership in the period between the effective date of this 2023 Act and any date on which the retail pet store sells a dog or cat after the effective date of this 2023 Act.
(3) A retail pet store that offers a dog for sale shall, prior to accepting an offer to purchase the dog, provide the person making the offer with the following information, in writing, regarding the dog:
(a) If known, the breed, age and date of birth for the dog.
(b) The sex and color of the dog.
(c) A list, and accompanying proof, of all inoculations that have been given to the dog by any person, and the date of those inoculations.
(d) A list of all medical treatment provided to the dog by any person, the date or treatment and the reasons for the treatment.
(e) The name and business address of the breeder and of the facility where the dog was born.
(f) If the breeder holds a license issued by the United States Department of Agriculture, the breeder's federal number.
(g) The retail price of the dog.
(h) Any congenital disorder or hereditary diseases in the parents of the dog known to the retail pet store.
(i) If the dog is being sold with the representation that the dog qualifies for registration with a pedigree organization:
(A) The name and registration numbers of the parents of the dog; and
(B) The name and address of the pedigree organization with which the parents of the dog are registered.
(j) If the dog has previously been sold by the retail pet store and returned by the purchaser, the reason for the return.
(k) A statement in substantially the following form, with the applicable provision number circled:
The facility in which this dog was born has produced:
1. 0 to 2 litters during the one-year period preceding the day this dog was born.
2. 3 to 10 litters during the one-year period preceding the day this dog was born.
3. 11 to 39 litters during the one-year period preceding the day this dog was born.
4. 40 or more litters during the one-year period preceding the day this dog was born.
(4) A retail pet store that violates this section is liable for a civil penalty in an amount that does not exceed $500 for each violation. The district attorney for the county in which the violation occurs may bring an action in the circuit court for the county to recover the civil penalty set forth in this subsection.
(5) This section does not:
(a) Preempt a local government from enacting an ordinance, rule or resolution, or from taking other legislative action, that imposes requirements or prohibitions that are more stringent than the requirements and prohibitions set forth in this section; or
(b) Prohibit a retail pet store from cooperating with an animal rescue entity to display on the premises of the retail pet store pet animals that the animal rescue entity offers for adoption if:
(A) The retail pet store does not have an ownership interest in any pet animal displayed or offered for adoption on the retail pet store's premises; and
(B) The retail pet store does not receive compensation for the use of the retail pet store's premises for the purpose described in this paragraph.
Credits
Added by Laws 2009, c. 297, § 5, eff. Jan. 1, 2010. Amended by Laws 2023 c. 420, § 1, eff. Sept. 24, 2023.
646A.077. Sale of dogs to pet dealers; refunds
(1) As used in this section:
(a) “Litter” means one or more dogs, sold individually or together, that are all or part of a group of dogs born to the same mother at the same time.
(b) “Pet dealer” means, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this subsection, a person that sells five or more litters of dogs during a one-year period.
(c) “Pet dealer” does not mean an animal control agency, humane society or animal shelter.
(2) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a pet dealer shall provide the purchaser of a dog that complies with subsection (3) of this section with a full refund of the purchase price for the dog if:
(a) No later than 15 days after purchasing the dog from the pet dealer the purchaser has the dog examined by a veterinarian and the examination reveals that the dog is diseased; or
(b) No later than one year after purchasing the dog from the pet dealer the purchaser has the dog examined by a veterinarian and the examination reveals that the dog has a congenital disorder that significantly limits the dog's quality of life.
(3) To qualify for a refund under this section, the purchaser, no later than four business days after the veterinary examination that revealed the disease or disorder, must:
(a) Return the dog to the pet dealer;
(b) Provide the pet dealer with a dated written statement by the examining veterinarian that the dog has a disease or has a congenital defect; and
(c) Provide the pet dealer with proof of the sale, including but not limited to, the date of sale.
(4) Upon mutual agreement of the purchaser and pet dealer, the purchaser may accept a replacement dog instead of a refund.
(5) A purchaser that complies with subsection (2) of this section may, instead of obtaining a refund, require that the pet dealer reimburse the purchaser for the cost of veterinary care provided in connection with the disease or congenital disorder described in subsection (2) of this section. The duty of the pet dealer to reimburse the purchaser for the cost of veterinary care shall be limited to the purchase price of the dog. A purchaser that agrees to accept reimbursement under this subsection waives any other claim against the pet dealer for reimbursement of the cost of veterinary care for the dog.
(6) Notwithstanding subsections (1) to (5) of this section, a pet dealer is not required to refund the purchase price for a dog, provide a replacement dog or reimburse the purchaser for veterinary care if the pet dealer:
(a) At the time of sale made a clear and conspicuous disclosure in writing, initialed or signed by the purchaser, that disclosed the disease or disorder; or
(b) Had the dog examined by a veterinarian not more than 14 days prior to the date of sale and the examination did not disclose the disease or congenital disorder.
Credits
Added by Laws 2009, c. 297, § 4, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
Title 16. Crimes and Punishments. Chapter 167. Offenses Against General Welfare and Animals. Offenses Against Animals
167.374. Breeding dogs; possession; records
(1) As used in this section:
(a) “Boarding kennel” means a facility that provides care for a fee to dogs that stay at the facility an average of less than 30 days.
(b) “Dog” means a member of the subspecies Canis lupus familiaris or a hybrid of that subspecies.
(c) “Litter” means one or more dogs, sold individually or together, that are all or part of a group of dogs born to the same mother at the same time.
(2) A person may not possess, control or otherwise have charge of at the same time more than 50 sexually intact dogs that are two years of age or older for the primary purpose of reproduction. It is prima facie evidence that a person possesses dogs for the primary purpose of reproduction if during a 12-month period the person sells, offers for sale, barters or exchanges more than three litters of dogs that are less than eight months of age.
(3) A person that possesses, controls or otherwise has charge of 50 or more sexually intact dogs that are eight months of age or older shall maintain a record for each of those dogs that identifies:
(a) The date of birth for the dog or, if the date of birth is unknown, the date the person acquired possession, control or charge of the dog and the source of the dog;
(b) The dates on which the dog has been bred;
(c) For a female, the number of dogs in each litter produced; and
(d) The disposition the person makes of each dog possessed by, controlled by or in the charge of the person, including the date of disposition, manner of disposition and the name and address information for any person taking possession, control or charge of a dog.
(4) A person shall retain a record required under subsection (3) of this section for a period of three years following the death of the dog or a date on which the person permanently ceased to have possession, control or charge of the dog.
(5) Subsections (2) to (4) of this section do not apply to:
(a) An animal control agency, humane society or animal shelter;
(b) A person who provides care for dogs at the request of a unit of government, government agency, humane society or animal shelter;
(c) A veterinary facility;
(d) A person that is transporting dogs; or
(e) A boarding kennel.
(6) A violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor. However, a court shall suspend sentence under this subsection for a violation of subsection (2) of this section if the person agrees to have a sufficient number of dogs spayed or neutered to remedy the violation.
Credits
Added by Laws 2009, c. 297, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
167.376. Breeding dogs; standard of care
(1) As used in this section:
(a) “Boarding kennel” means a facility that provides care for a fee to dogs that stay at the facility an average of less than 30 days.
(b) “Dog” means a member of the subspecies Canis lupus familiaris or a hybrid of that subspecies.
(c) “Litter” means one or more dogs, sold individually or together, that are all or part of a group of dogs born to the same mother at the same time.
(d) “Regular exercise” means the removal of the dog from the dog's primary enclosure and:
(A) Walking the dog on a leash;
(B) Allowing the dog to move about freely within a building or an outdoor space at least one hour per day; or
(C) Allowing the dog to walk on a treadmill, jenny mill, slat mill or similar device, if use of the device is prescribed for the dog by a veterinarian to accommodate a specific medical condition.
(2) A person that possesses, controls or otherwise has charge of at the same time 10 or more sexually intact dogs that are eight months of age or older shall, in addition to providing minimum care as defined in ORS 167.310:
(a) Provide each dog with sufficient space to turn about freely, stand and sit and to lie down without the head, face, tail, legs or feet of the dog touching the sides of the enclosure or touching any other dog.
(b) Provide each dog with an enclosure that:
(A) Has a solid floor without slats or gaps;
(B) Is six inches higher than the head of the tallest dog in that enclosure when the tallest dog is in a normal standing position;
(C) If elevated above the floor of a room, is placed so that the floor of the enclosure is no more than 42 inches above the floor of the room; and
(D) Is not stacked or otherwise placed above or below any other dog enclosure.
(c) Provide each dog that is more than four months of age with at least one hour of regular exercise each day, unless a veterinarian has certified that the dog is medically precluded from exercise.
(d) Remove waste and contaminants from the enclosure at least once each day.
(e) Remove the dog from the enclosure when cleaning the enclosure of waste and contaminants.
(f) Maintain a record for each sexually intact dog that is eight months of age or older that identifies:
(A) The date of birth for the dog or, if the date of birth is unknown, the date on which the person acquired possession, control or charge of the dog and the source of the dog;
(B) Any veterinary care provided for the dog; and
(C) The disposition the person makes of each dog possessed by, controlled by or in the charge of the person, including the date of disposition, manner of disposition and the name and address information for any person taking possession, control or charge of a dog.
(3) A person shall retain a record required under subsection (2) of this section for a period of three years following the death of the dog or a date on which the person permanently ceased to have possession, control or charge of the dog.
(4) Subsections (2) and (3) of this section do not apply to:
(a) An animal control agency, humane society or animal shelter;
(b) A person who provides care for dogs at the request of a unit of government, government agency, humane society or animal shelter;
(c) A veterinary facility;
(d) A person that is transporting dogs; or
(e) A boarding kennel.
(5) A violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor.
Credits
Added by Laws 2009, c. 297, § 2, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
Title 59. Oregon Vehicle Code. Chapter 811. Rules of the Road for Drivers. Driver Offenses Involving Passengers
811.200. Carrying dog on external part of vehicle; penalties
(1) A person commits the offense of carrying a dog on the external part of a vehicle if the person carries a dog upon the hood, fender, running board or other external part of any automobile or truck that is upon a highway unless the dog is protected by framework, carrier or other device sufficient to keep it from falling from the vehicle.
(2) The offense described in this section, carrying dog on external part of vehicle, is a Class D traffic violation.
Credits
Laws 1983, c. 338, § 603; Laws 1995, c. 383, § 52.
Title 3. Remedies and Special Actions and Proceedings. Chapter 30. Actions and Suits in Particular Cases. Miscellaneous Actions.
30.815. Seller or lessor of law enforcement dogs; liability
(1) As used in this section, “law enforcement dog” means a dog that is sold or leased to a law enforcement agency and intended to be a law enforcement animal as defined in ORS 167.310.
(2) A seller or lessor of a law enforcement dog is not liable under ORS 30.920 for physical harm or damage to property caused by the law enforcement dog if the law enforcement agency to which the dog was sold or leased has begun or completed training the dog using a training program approved by the law enforcement agency or an accredited and recognized animal handling organization.
Credits
Added by Laws 2017, c. 258, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2018.
Title 3. Remedies and Special Actions and Proceedings. Chapter 31. Tort Actions. Specific Claims for Relief (Actions Arising from Injuries Caused by Dogs)
31.360. Economic damages from injuries caused by dogs
(1) For the purpose of establishing a claim for economic damages, as defined in ORS 31.705, in an action arising from an injury caused by a dog:
(a) The plaintiff need not prove that the owner of the dog could foresee that the dog would cause the injury; and
(b) The owner of the dog may not assert as a defense that the owner could not foresee that the dog would cause the injury.
(2) This section does not prevent the owner of a dog that caused an injury from asserting that the dog was provoked, or from asserting any other defense that may be available to the owner.
(3) This section does not affect the requirements for an award of punitive damages provided in ORS 31.730 (1).
Credits
Added by Laws 2007, c. 402, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2008. Amended by Laws 2021, c. 478, § 6, eff. Jan. 1, 2022.