Browse all the Lawforwa Resources on Animal and Pet Law

Resource Description:

Questions answered by the resource:

Animal Welfare Act and Regulations
http://www.nal.usda.gov/awic/legislat/usdaleg1.htm
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture

This National Agriculture Library website offers information on the Animal Welfare Act, including interpretive summaries, amendments and answers to frequently asked questions. The Animal Welfare Act dictates minimum standards of humane treatment and handling of some animals in research experiments, commercial sales, transportation, and public display.
full description

• What is the Animal Welfare Act?
• What year was the Animal Welfare Act first established?
• When was the Animal Welfare Act implemented?
• What animals are excluded from the Animal Welfare Act?
• What animals fall under the Animal Welfare Act?
• What must individuals provide to animals under this Act?
• How should dogs and cats be housed?
• What is the exercise requirement for dogs?

When a Dog Is a Lemon
http://www.nolo.com/lawcenter/ency/article.cfm/obj
Source: Nolo

Explains how to avoid buying a sick pet and what to do if you have already purchased a sick pet. Topics covered include: obtaining disclosures from sellers about the pet, pet "lemon laws" enacted in some states, and alternatives to pet stores and puppy mills.
full description

• How can I avoid buying a sick dog, cat, or pet?
• I am buying a dog, cat, or pet. Does the seller have to tell me about the animal's problems?
• What should I do to protect myself in case the dog, cat, or pet I am buying is sick or the seller makes false promises about the animal?
• I bought a sick dog, cat, or pet. Can I return it or get my money back?

Creating a Contract for the Purchase of an Animal
http://www.nolo.com/lawcenter/auntie/questions.cfm
Source: Nolo

Describes preparing a bill of sale for the purchase of a pet.
full description

• I am buying or adopting a dog, cat, or pet. Should I have a written contract?
• How do I prepare a bill of sale for the dog, cat, or pet I am buying or adopting?
• What should I do to protect myself in case the dog, cat, or pet I am buying is sick or the seller makes false promises about the animal?

How Dog Owners Can Avoid Being Bitten by a Lawsuit
http://www.nolo.com/lawcenter/ency/article.cfm/obj
Source: Nolo

Describes the types of damages people may have to pay when their pet injures someone else. Lists steps pet-owners can take to avoid liability.
full description

• What types of damages might I have to pay if my dog, cat or pet hurts someone?
• How can I protect myself from liability for my dog, cat or pet?
• What must I teach my dog?

Defenses When Your Dog Becomes "Vicious"
http://www.aldf.org/resources/details.php?id=75
Source: Animal Legal Defense Fund

Materials written by Amy Blaymore Paterson describing what laws allow people to sue for damages caused by someone else's pets, what damages the pet owner might have to pay, and how the pet owner may be able to defend against or resolve the lawsuit.
full description

• Can I be sued because my dog bit someone?
• What laws apply to dog bites?
• What damages might I have to pay if my dog bites someone?
• How can I defend myself if my dog is accused of biting someone?