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2017 SESSION

17101042D
HOUSE BILL NO. 1802
Offered January 11, 2017
Prefiled January 9, 2017
A BILL to amend and reenact § 3.2-6503 of the Code of Virginia, relating to care of companion animals; tethering; penalty.
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Patrons-- Bell, John J., Boysko, Hope, Kory, Lindsey, Plum, Rasoul and Simon
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Referred to Committee on Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources
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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That § 3.2-6503 of the Code of Virginia is amended and reenacted as follows:

§ 3.2-6503. Care of companion animals by owner; penalty.

A. Each owner shall provide for each of his companion animals:

1. Adequate feed;

2. Adequate water;

3. Adequate shelter that is properly cleaned;

4. Adequate space in the primary enclosure for the particular type of animal depending upon its age, size, species, and weight;

5. Adequate exercise;

6. Adequate care, treatment, and transportation; and

7. Veterinary care when needed to prevent suffering or disease transmission.

The provisions of this section shall also apply to every public or private animal shelter, or other releasing agency, and every foster care provider, dealer, pet shop, exhibitor, kennel, groomer, and boarding establishment. This section shall not require that animals used as food for other animals be euthanized.

B. No companion animal shall be tethered outdoors unless the owner is outdoors within sight of the animal.

C. Violation of this section is a Class 4 misdemeanor. A second or subsequent violation of subdivision A 1, 2, 3, or 7 is a Class 2 misdemeanor, and a second or subsequent violation of subdivision A 4, 5, or 6 or subsection B is a Class 3 misdemeanor.