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 New Dog Is Sick
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?

Estate Planning for Your Pet
http://estateplanningforpets.org
Source: estateplanningforpets.org

The website includes information about planning for the care of pets after the owner's death. It provides information for pet owners and lawyers, and includes sample language for legal documents. The author is an attorney, Steven Baker.
full description

• How can I include my pet in my will?
• Do I need estate planning for my pet?
• What would happen if my pet passed away?
• Where can I find an attorney to assist me with estate planning for me pet?
• Where can I find more information about estate planning for pets?

How Dog Owners Can Avoid 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?
• How can I keep from being sued?

What to do if your dog is in danger of being declared "vicious," or if your dog has bitten someone who is now suing you
http://www.aldf.org/article.php?id=246
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?