AB381

Existing law requires certain officers to: (1) take possession of an animal which is being treated cruelly and provide the animal with shelter and care or, with the permission of the owner, humanely destroy the animal; and (2) give to the owner a notice containing certain information. (NRS 574.055) Section 3 of this bill also authorizes an officer that takes possession of an animal to destroy the animal in a humane manner if: (1) the officer obtains an order from a court; or (2) a licensed veterinarian, veterinarian technician or euthanasia technician examines the animal and recommends that the animal be humanely destroyed. Upon proof that proper notice has been given, existing law authorizes a court of competent jurisdiction to order the animal sold at auction, humanely destroyed or continued in the care of the officer. (NRS 574.055) Section 3 removes the authorization for a court to order the animal sold at auction. Existing law provides that, with certain exceptions, the seizure and disposition of an animal which an officer discovers is being treated cruelly does not apply to any animal which is located on land being employed for an agricultural use. (NRS 574.055) Section 3 removes this exception. Existing law provides that a person who engages in certain acts of torture or cruelty to animals is guilty of a misdemeanor for a first offense, except if the person: (1) willfully and maliciously engages in such an act, the person is guilty of a category D felony; or (2) commits