Keeping Animals

Massachusetts Laws on Keeping Animals

Abandoned animals

  • MGL c.186, § 30 When tenants leave a property, the owner or lessor should inspect it for abandoned animals
  • MGL c.239, § 14 After property is vacated following summary process, the owner or lessor should inspect it for abandoned animals
  • MGL c.244, § 41 After property is vacated following mortgage foreclosure, the owner or lessor should inspect it for abandoned animals

Animal cruelty

Cock fighting and dog fighting

Dogs

Endangered species

Exotic pets

Horses

Leasing or renting dogs

Livestock health and sales

Restraining orders

  • MGL c.209A, § 11 Possession, care and control of domesticated animal owned by persons involved in certain protective orders; notice to law enforcement upon finding of imminent threat to household member or animal

Transporting animals