reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.74 — Conservation Of Museum Property.

345.74 CONSERVATION OF MUSEUM PROPERTY.
Subdivision 1.
Protection of loaned property.
Unless there is a written loan agreement to the contrary, a museum may apply conservation measures to property on loan to the museum without the lender's permission or formal notice if action is required to protect the property on loan or other property in the custody of the museum, or the property on loan is a hazard to the health and safety of the public or the museum staff, and either:
(1) the museum is unable to reach the lender at the lender's last known address within three days before the time the museum determines action is necessary; or
(2) the lender does not respond or will not agree to the protective measures the museum recommends and does not terminate the loan and retrieve the property within three days.
Subd. 2.
Lien.
If a museum applies conservation measures to property under this section, or with the agreement of the lender, unless the agreement provides otherwise, the museum acquires a lien on the property in the amount of the costs incurred by the museum.
Subd. 3.
Liability.
The museum is not liable for injury to or loss of the property if the museum:
(1) had a reasonable belief at the time the action was taken that the action was necessary to protect the property on loan or other property in the custody of the museum, or that the property on loan was a hazard to the health and safety of the public or the museum staff; and
(2) exercised reasonable care in the choice and application of conservation measures.
History:
2004 c 213 s 5
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.75 — Abandoned Tangible Personal Property.

345.75 ABANDONED TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY.
The ownership of abandoned tangible personal property that is not subject to any other provision of statute may be transferred as provided by this section.
If property has not been removed within six months after it comes into the possession of a person, it is abandoned and shall become the property of the person in possession, after notice to the prior owner. Thirty days' notice that the time period has elapsed and that the ownership will be transferred at the end of the 30 days shall be given to the prior owner personally or by certified mail, which is actually received. If the name of the prior owner is not known, and cannot be ascertained with reasonable diligence, three weeks' published notice shall be given in the county where the property is located. The prior owner or another person claiming an interest in the property may petition the district court to stay the transfer of ownership for a reasonable period to allow the removal of the property. The transfer is stayed while the petition is pending before the court.
History:
2005 c 109 s 7
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.01 — Who May Take Up.

346.01 WHO MAY TAKE UP.
No person shall take up any estray, except horses or mules, unless such estray shall be found on lands owned or occupied by the person in the town wherein the person resides.
History:
(7267) RL s 2769; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.03 — Appraisement.

346.03 APPRAISEMENT.
Every finder of an estray of the value of $10 or more at the time of taking up shall, within one month, have it appraised by a county or municipal judge. The certificate of appraisement shall be filed with the town clerk. The finder shall pay 50 cents for the certificate and six cents per mile for each mile necessarily traveled to make the appraisal.
History:
(7269) RL s 2771; 1983 c 359 s 34
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.04 — Charges For Keeping.

346.04 CHARGES FOR KEEPING.
The person entitled to the possession of any estray, at any time within one year after notice is filed with the town clerk, may have it restored upon proving the right to it and paying all lawful charges that occur in relation to it. If the person and the finder cannot agree as to the amount of the charges, or upon what should be allowed for the use of the estray, either party, on notice to the other, may apply to a district court judge to settle the disagreement. The judge may examine witnesses on oath. If any amount is owed to the finder, over the value of the use of the estray, the money, with costs, shall be a lien upon the estray. The costs of the adjudication shall be allocated by the judge.
History:
(7270) RL s 2772; 1983 c 359 s 35; 1986 c 444; 1998 c 254 art 2 s 33
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.05 — Sale Of Estray.

346.05 SALE OF ESTRAY.
If no claimant for such estray shall cause its return to the claimant as before provided, and if such estray shall not have been appraised at more than $10, the finder shall thereupon become the owner thereof; but, if such appraised value exceeds $10, the estray shall be sold at public auction by any peace officer of the county on the request of the finder. Notice thereof shall be given and the sale conducted and the same fees allowed as in case of sales upon justice's execution. The finder may bid at such sale, and at the time thereof shall deliver to such officer a statement, in writing, of the finder's charges. After deducting such charges, if reasonable, and the costs of sale, the officer shall deposit the remainder of the money, together with the written statement and a statement of the costs of sale, with the county treasurer, taking the treasurer's receipt therefor. If the finder of any such estray shall fail to cause the sale to be made, the finder shall pay to the town the value of the estray, to be recovered in an action by the town.
History:
(7271) RL s 2773; 1986 c 444; 2005 c 10 art 2 s 2
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.06 — Money, How Disposed Of.

346.06 MONEY, HOW DISPOSED OF.
If the money so deposited be not claimed by the former owner of the estray within one year after such sale, the same shall be paid by the county treasurer into the public school fund.
History:
(7272) RL s 2774
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.07 — Removal Of Estray; Neglect To Give Notice.

346.07 REMOVAL OF ESTRAY; NEGLECT TO GIVE NOTICE.
If any person, without the consent of the finder, shall take away any estray taken up pursuant to this chapter, without first paying all lawful charges incurred in relation to the same, the person shall be liable to the finder for the value of the estray; and, if any person taking up the estray shall neglect to comply with the provisions of this chapter, that person shall be precluded from acquiring any right of property in such estray and from receiving any charges or compensation in relation thereto.
History:
(7273) RL s 2775; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.08 — Distraint Of Animals Doing Damage.

346.08 DISTRAINT OF ANIMALS DOING DAMAGE.
The owner or occupant of lands may distrain any beast doing damage thereon, either while upon the premises or upon immediate pursuit of such beast escaping therefrom, and before returning to the enclosure or immediate care of the owner or keeper, and keep such beast upon the distrainer's premises, or in some public ground in the distrainer's town, until the damages shall be appraised, as hereinafter provided.
History:
(7274) RL s 2776; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.09 — Animals Doing Damage.

346.09 ANIMALS DOING DAMAGE.
Subdivision 1.
Notice; appraisers.
The person distraining shall give notice to the owner of the beast, if known to the distrainer, within 24 hours if the owner resides in the same town, and within 48 hours if the owner resides in another town in the same county, Sundays excepted. The notice shall specify the time when and the place where distrained, the number of beasts, and the place of their detention, and that at a time and place stated therein, which shall not be less than 12 hours after the service of the notice, nor more than three days after the distress, the distrainer will apply to a designated judge of the county for the appointment of appraisers to appraise the damages. If the owner is unknown or does not reside in the county, the distraining person shall apply for the appointment of appraisers within 24 hours after the distress without notice. After the application, the judge shall appoint three disinterested residents of the town to appraise the damages.
Subd. 2.
Owners right to appraisal.
If the distraining person fails to apply for appointment of appraisers within the time designated in subdivision 1, the owner of the beasts distrained may in the same manner apply for appointment of appraisers.
History:
(7275) RL s 2777; 1953 c 8 s 1; 1983 c 359 s 36; 1986 c 444; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 7
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.10 — Appraisement; Procedure.

346.10 APPRAISEMENT; PROCEDURE.
The appraisers, immediately after their appointment, shall be sworn and view the damage done. They may take the evidence of any witnesses of the facts and circumstances necessary to enable them to ascertain the extent of such damage, and the insufficiency of any line fence on the premises where the damage was done, if any dispute shall arise touching the same, and may administer oaths to such witnesses. They shall certify, under their hands, the amount of such damages, and the costs of keeping such beasts to that time, with their fees, not exceeding $1 per day each; and their determination as to such damages, and the sufficiency of such fence, if in dispute, shall be conclusive.
History:
(7276) RL s 2778
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.11 — Tender By Owner; Effect.

346.11 TENDER BY OWNER; EFFECT.
At any time before proceedings are begun for such appraisement, or before action is brought for the recovery of damages, the owner or the owner's agent may tender, to the person aggrieved by the depredation of such animal, the amount of damages which such owner may believe has been sustained. If the tender be accepted, no further damages shall be recovered in any way; if refused, and the person aggrieved fails to substantiate or recover as damages a sum greater than that tendered, no costs, disbursements, or expenses shall be collected or recovered in the aggrieved person's favor, but the aggrieved person shall pay the costs and disbursements of such owner.
History:
(7277) RL s 2779; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.12 — Impoundments.

346.12 IMPOUNDMENTS.
Unless the damages so ascertained, together with the fees of the appraisers and justice, shall be paid within 24 hours after appraisal, the person distraining shall cause the beasts to be put into the nearest pound of the same town, if there be one; and, if not, then in some secure enclosure therein, where the same shall remain until sold, as hereinafter directed, or until the damages, fees, and the costs of keeping the beasts after appraisal shall be paid, or until otherwise seized or discharged according to law. From the time of seizure until discharged or sold, such beasts shall be furnished with suitable food, the expense of which, after the appraisal, shall be added thereto as additional costs; and, if the beasts be put in a pound, the certificate of appraisal shall be delivered to the keeper thereof.
History:
(7278) RL s 2780
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.13 — Poundmaster; Custody; Sale; Time; Notice.

346.13 POUNDMASTER; CUSTODY; SALE; TIME; NOTICE.
The poundmaster shall receive and keep in the public pound any beasts so delivered to the poundmaster; and, unless seized or discharged according to law within six days, shall sell the same or as many as shall be necessary to pay such damages, fees, and costs, at public auction, giving three days' posted notice thereof, and posting one such notice on the pound.
History:
(7279) RL s 2781; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.14 — Sale Of Animal Not Impounded.

346.14 SALE OF ANIMAL NOT IMPOUNDED.
If, by reason of there being no pound within such town, such beasts shall be kept within some other enclosure, and shall not be discharged therefrom in the manner hereinbefore provided within six days after being placed therein, the sheriff of the county shall sell such beasts, or so many as may be necessary to pay such damages, fees, and costs of keeping, upon the same notice as is required in sales of personal property, on execution.
History:
(7280) RL s 2782; 2005 c 10 art 2 s 4
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.15 — Redemption.

346.15 REDEMPTION.
The purchaser of any animal sold under sections 346.13 and 346.14 shall keep the same at least two months, during which time the owner may redeem such animal by paying all costs and charges of keeping, and the amount paid therefor at the sale, with interest thereon at 12 percent per annum.
History:
(7281) RL s 2783
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.16 — Running At Large; Defined; Prohibited; Treble Damages.

346.16 RUNNING AT LARGE; DEFINED; PROHIBITED; TREBLE DAMAGES.
The herding of any animal of the species of cattle, horse, ass, mule, sheep, swine, or goat upon any land over the protest and against the will of the owner shall be deemed a running at large.
It shall be unlawful for any owner or any person having the control of any such animal to permit the same to run at large in the state.
Any person who shall knowingly permit the running at large of any such domestic animal shall be liable to the person aggrieved for treble damages sustained by the aggrieved person, to be recovered in a civil action brought for that purpose.
History:
(7295, 7296, 7297) 1913 c 459 s 1-3; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.17 — Proceeds Of Sale.

346.17 PROCEEDS OF SALE.
From the proceeds of such sale the person making it shall retain sales fees, which shall be the same as are allowed on execution sales, and the costs of keeping such beasts, and shall pay to the distrainer the damages so certified, with fees of the appraisers and justice; and the surplus, if any, shall be paid to the owner of the beasts, if known. If no one appears at the time of the sale, or within one week thereafter, who claims such surplus, the same shall be paid to the treasurer of the town, to be paid to the owner of the beasts, if claimed within one year after the distress. If not applied for within one year, the money shall be applied to the use of the town.
History:
(7282) RL s 2784; 1986 c 444; 2005 c 10 art 2 s 4
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.18 — Taking Distrained Beasts A Misdemeanor.

346.18 TAKING DISTRAINED BEASTS A MISDEMEANOR.
If any person, without authority of law, and without first paying the damages and costs, takes any distrained beast out of the possession of the person making the distress, or that of the sheriff or poundmaster, as the case may be, without the possessor's consent, the taker shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and shall also be liable to the person injured in double the amount of the damage done by such beasts.
History:
(7283) RL s 2785; 1986 c 444; 2005 c 10 art 2 s 4
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.36 — Definitions.

346.36 DEFINITIONS.
Subdivision 1.
Scope.
Sections 346.35 to 346.44 shall only apply to veterinarians, animal boarding facilities, and commercial animal facilities. As used in sections 346.35 to 346.44 the terms defined in this section have the meanings given them.
Subd. 2.
Abuse.
"Abuse" means intentionally causing unnecessary pain, injury, suffering, or harassment to a pet or companion animal.
Subd. 3.
Cruelty.
"Cruelty" means causing or allowing unnecessary pain, suffering, or unjustifiable injury or death to a pet or companion animal.
Subd. 4.
Expert opinion.
"Expert opinion" means the opinion of at least one licensed Minnesota veterinarian selected by an investigating officer.
Subd. 5.
Neglect.
"Neglect" means failure to provide the minimum care required for the health and well-being of a pet or companion animal.
Subd. 6.
Pet or companion animal.
"Pet" or "companion animal" means a nonhuman mammal, bird, or reptile impounded or held for breeding, or possessed by, cared for, or controlled by a person for the present or future enjoyment of that person or another.
Subd. 7.
Shelter; confinement area.
"Shelter" or "confinement area" means an enclosure provided to protect or confine a pet or companion animal when it is not in transit.
History:
1983 c 216 art 2 s 14; 1983 c 358 s 2
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.38 — Equines.

346.38 EQUINES.
Subdivision 1.
Definition.
"Equines" are horses, ponies, mules, and burros.
Subd. 2.
Food.
Equines must be provided with food of sufficient quantity and quality to allow for normal growth or the maintenance of body weight. Feed standards shall be those recommended by the National Research Council.
Subd. 3.
Water.
Equines must be provided with clean, potable water in sufficient quantity to satisfy the animal's needs or supplied by free choice. Snow or ice is not an adequate water source.
Subd. 4.
Shelter.
Equines must be provided a minimum of free choice protection or constructed shelter from adverse weather conditions, including direct rays of the sun in extreme heat or cold, wind, or precipitation. Natural or constructed shelters must be of sufficient size to provide the necessary protection. Constructed shelters must be structurally sound, free of injurious matter, maintained in good repair, and ventilated. Outside exercise paddocks for equines do not require separate constructed shelter where a shelter is accessible to the equine on adjacent or other accessible areas of the property provided that equines are not kept in outdoor exercise paddocks during adverse weather conditions.
Subd. 5.
Space and cleanliness requirements.
Constructed shelters except for tie stalls must provide space for the animal to: (1) roll with a minimum danger of being cast; or (2) easily stand, lie down, and turn around. Stalls must be cleaned and kept dry to the extent the animal is not required to lie or stand in fluids. Bedding must be provided in all stalls, kept reasonably clean, and periodically changed. The nature of the bedding must not pose a health hazard to the animal.
Subd. 6.
Exercise.
Equines must be provided opportunity for periodic exercise, either through free choice or through a forced work program, unless exercise is restricted by a licensed veterinarian.
Subd. 7.
Hoof care.
All equines must have their hooves properly trimmed periodically to prevent lameness.
Subd. 8.
Transportation.
A vehicle used to transport an equine must have a floor capable of supporting the animal's weight safely. Floors must be of nonskid construction or of nonskid material sufficient to provide the animal with traction while in transport. A minimum of 12 inches must be allowed between the withers of the largest equine and the structure above the animal while it is in a natural standing position. Sturdy partitions must be provided at a minimum of approximately every ten feet inside the vehicle. Interior compartments of transporting vehicles must be of smooth construction with no protruding or sharp objects and must provide ventilation. Food and water must be provided in sufficient quantities to minimize stress and maintain hydration.
History:
1983 c 358 s 4; 1986 c 444; 1998 c 402 s 3,4
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.40 — Pet Birds.

346.40 PET BIRDS.
Subdivision 1.
Food.
Birds must be fed at least once each day except as otherwise required to provide adequate health care. The food must be wholesome, palatable, and of sufficient quantity and nutritive value to meet the normal daily requirements for the condition and size of the bird, and must be free from contamination.
Subd. 2.
Water.
Except for birds in shipment for less than four hours, all birds must be provided with clean, potable water in sufficient quantity to satisfy the bird's needs or supplied by free choice. Snow or ice is not an adequate water source.
Subd. 3.
Transportation.
Birds may be transported only in containers constructed of a smooth, durable material. Containers must:
(a) be suitable for the species being shipped;
(b) be constructed to prevent escape or chewing of the container by the bird that may be injurious to the health of the bird;
(c) have ventilation on only one side to prevent cross drafts;
(d) provide enough space for the bird to stand up, turn around, and obtain necessary food, water, and roosting space;
(e) have fresh food and water available to the bird at all times if the shipping period exceeds four hours.
Subd. 4.
Shelter or cage construction.
A shelter or cage for a bird must be constructed of materials that are impervious to moisture and can be readily cleaned. Perches or other space must be provided to allow the bird to roost without physical harassment from other birds.
Subd. 5.
Exercise.
Room must be provided for a bird to obtain exercise to maintain itself in good health.
Subd. 6.
Temperature.
A confinement area must be maintained at a temperature suitable for the bird involved.
Subd. 7.
Ventilation.
A bird shelter or cage must provide ventilation with minimized drafts, odors, and moisture condensation.
Subd. 8.
Lighting.
Shelters or cages for birds must have at least eight hours of either natural or artificial light to allow for intake of food and water. Lighting must be of sufficient intensity and distribution to permit routine inspection and cleaning on a regular basis.
Subd. 9.
Sanitation.
Excreta must be removed from the bottom of a bird cage on a regular basis to prevent the contamination of the caged bird. The cage, perches, and food and water receptacles must be cleaned on a regular basis.
History:
1983 c 358 s 6
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.42 — Other Animals.

346.42 OTHER ANIMALS.
Animals not covered in detail in sections 346.38 to 346.41 must be maintained in accordance with a general standard of care necessary for the species as determined by an expert opinion.
History:
1983 c 358 s 8
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.43 — Farm Animals Excluded.

346.43 FARM ANIMALS EXCLUDED.
Sections 346.35 to 346.44 do not apply to the care or treatment of an agricultural or farm animal which is used for food or other products or any other agricultural use.
History:
1983 c 358 s 9
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.47 — Seized Animals.

346.47 SEIZED ANIMALS.
Subdivision 1.
Definitions.
As used in this section:
(1) "establishment" means any public or private agency, person, society, or corporation having custody of animals that are seized under the authority of the state or any political subdivision of the state; and
(2) "regular business day" means a day during which the establishment having custody of an animal is open to the public not less than four consecutive hours between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Subd. 2.
Impoundment; record keeping.
All animals seized by public authority must be held in an establishment for redemption by the owner for at least five regular business days of the establishment or for a longer time specified by municipal ordinance. Establishments must maintain the following records of the animals in custody, and preserve the records for at least six months:
(1) the description of the animal by species, breed, sex, approximate age, and other distinguishing traits;
(2) the location at which the animal was seized;
(3) the date of seizure;
(4) the name and address of the person from whom any animal three months of age or over was received; and
(5) the name and address of the person to whom any animal three months of age or over was transferred.
The records must be maintained in a form permitting easy perusal by the public. A person may view the records and animals in custody at any time during which the establishment is open to the public.
Subd. 3.
Release of animals.
A person must not release an animal seized and held under this section for research or product testing, either directly or through an animal dealer. This subdivision does not apply to the temporary transfer of an animal to a college of veterinary medicine or veterinary technology school accredited by the American Veterinary Medicine Association for the purpose of sterilization or needed veterinary care.
History:
2012 c 244 art 1 s 73
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.50 — Dogs; Identification.

346.50 DOGS; IDENTIFICATION.
An owner or custodian of a dog who permits the dog to be uncontrolled off the owner's or custodian's premises shall have the dog identified in one of the following ways:
(1) by a device, tag, or plate attached to the dog by a collar, harness, or device giving the name, address, and telephone number of the current owner;
(2) by an electronically activated identification device within or attached to the body of the dog through which the owner can be promptly identified;
(3) by a number legibly tattooed on the thigh, abdomen, or ear of the dog through which the owner can be promptly identified using information from official dog registries, city or county registries, veterinary hospital registries, or driver's license records;
(4) by an official license tag of a city or county through which the owner can be promptly identified; or
(5) by a current rabies vaccination tag or other identification device of a city, a county, or a veterinarian through which the owner can be promptly identified.
History:
1985 c 294 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.51 — Bites.

346.51 BITES.
An owner or custodian of a dog which does not have an appropriate antirabies vaccination and which bites or otherwise exposes a person to rabies virus may be penalized under section 346.53.
History:
1985 c 294 s 2
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.52 — Local Programs.

346.52 LOCAL PROGRAMS.
Sections 346.50 to 346.54 do not prohibit or restrict a local governmental unit from imposing an identification or rabies control program with more restrictive provisions or prohibiting dogs from running uncontrolled.
History:
1985 c 294 s 3
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.54 — Notification Of Owners.

346.54 NOTIFICATION OF OWNERS.
Animal shelter personnel who receive animals shall check for identification on each animal, identify the owner by the identification whenever possible, and promptly notify the owner of the location of the animal by the most expedient means.
History:
1985 c 294 s 5
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.55 — Civil Liability.

346.55 CIVIL LIABILITY.
Subdivision 1.
Penalty.
The transfer by a person other than the owner of a dog or cat to a dealer, the possession of a dog or cat by a dealer without the permission of the owner, or the transfer of a dog or cat by a dealer to an institution without the permission of the owner is prohibited. Nothing in this section prohibits the transfer of a dog or cat to a dealer if the dog or cat is removed from a property by or at the request of a person in possession of the property. For the purpose of this subdivision, "dealer" and "institution" have the meanings given them in section 347.31.
A person who transfers or possesses a dog or cat without claim of right with intent to deprive the owner permanently of possession of the dog or cat violates this section and is liable for a civil penalty of up to $1,000 per dog or cat for each violation. In bringing a civil action under this section the charging attorney shall consider, and in imposing a fine the court shall consider:
(1) the history of previous violations;
(2) the number of violations;
(3) the degree of willfulness of the violation;
(4) the good faith of the dealer;
(5) the good faith of the person delivering the dog or cat to the dealer; and
(6) the gravity of the violation.
A fine paid by the defendant in a criminal action that arose from the same violation may not be applied toward payment of the civil penalty under this subdivision.
Subd. 2.
Jurisdiction.
The district court may hear, try, and determine actions started under this section. Trials under this section must be to the court, sitting without a jury.
Subd. 3.
Appearances.
Notwithstanding section 8.01, county or city attorneys may appear for the board of animal health in civil actions started under this section at the request of the attorney general. Actions under this section may be brought in the name of the state of Minnesota with the consent of the Board of Animal Health or directly by a city or county attorney at the request of a person filing a complaint.
Subd. 4.
Venue.
Civil actions under this section may be started in any county in which the animal in question was transferred or possessed, or from which the dog or cat was removed without the permission of the lawful owner.
Subd. 5.
Fines.
Fines collected under this section must be disposed of as follows:
(a) If the violation occurs in the county, and the county attorney appears in the action, 50 percent to the county and 50 percent to the state.
(b) If the violation occurs within the municipality, and the city attorney appears in the action, 50 percent to the city and 50 percent to the state.
(c) If the attorney general appears in the action, all penalties imposed and fines collected must be credited to the general fund in the state treasury.
History:
1987 c 380 art 3 s 1; 1998 c 254 art 2 s 34
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.56 — Unauthorized Release Of Animals.

346.56 UNAUTHORIZED RELEASE OF ANIMALS.
Subdivision 1.
[Repealed, 1989 c 55 s 3]
Subd. 2.
Liability for damages.
A person who without permission releases an animal lawfully confined for science, research, commerce, or education is liable:
(1) to the owner of the animal for damages, including the costs of restoring the animal to confinement and to its health condition prior to release;
(2) for damage to personal and real property caused by the released animal;
(3) if the release causes the failure or interruption of an experiment, for all costs of repeating the experiment, including replacement of the animals, labor, and materials; and
(4) for any other damage the person causes to property in the facility from which the animal was released.
Subd. 3.
Amount of damages.
A person who is damaged under subdivision 2, clause (3) or (4), is entitled to recover a minimum of $5,000 or three times the actual damages incurred by that person under subdivision 2, clause (3) or (4), whichever is greater, and punitive damages, costs, and reasonable attorney fees.
Subd. 4.
Third-party liability; presumption.
A person or organization who plans or assists in the development of a plan to release, without permission, an animal lawfully confined for science, research, commerce, or education, or who otherwise aids, advises, hires, counsels, or encourages another to commit the act is jointly and severally liable for all damages under subdivision 3. There is a rebuttable presumption that a person or organization who claims responsibility for the act is liable under this subdivision.
History:
1988 c 535 s 1; 1989 c 55 s 1; 1999 c 216 art 6 s 14
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.57 — Dogs And Cats In Motor Vehicles.

346.57 DOGS AND CATS IN MOTOR VEHICLES.
Subdivision 1.
Unattended dogs or cats.
A person may not leave a dog or a cat unattended in a standing or parked motor vehicle in a manner that endangers the dog's or cat's health or safety.
Subd. 2.
Removal of dogs or cats.
A peace officer, as defined in section 626.84, a humane agent, a dog warden, or a volunteer or professional member of a fire or rescue department of a political subdivision may use reasonable force to enter a motor vehicle and remove a dog or cat which has been left in the vehicle in violation of subdivision 1. A person removing a dog or a cat under this subdivision shall use reasonable means to contact the owner of the dog or cat to arrange for its return home. If the person is unable to contact the owner, the person may take the dog or cat to an animal shelter.
Subd. 3.
Petty misdemeanor.
A person who violates subdivision 1 is subject to a fine of $25.
History:
1988 c 711 s 6
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 346 — Animals › Section 346.58 — Dogs And Cats; Best Management Standards For Care By Dealers, Commercial Breeders, And Brokers.

346.58 DOGS AND CATS; BEST MANAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CARE BY DEALERS, COMMERCIAL BREEDERS, AND BROKERS.
The commissioner of agriculture shall consult with interested persons, including but not limited to persons representing dog and cat dealers, breeders, and brokers, the Minnesota Federated Humane Society, the Minnesota Council for Dog Clubs, the American Dog Owners Association, the Board of Animal Health, the Minnesota Purebred Dog Breeders Association, the Minnesota Citizens for Animal Care, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association. The commissioner shall issue an order containing best management standards of care for dogs and cats by dealers, commercial breeders, and brokers. The commissioner shall urge dealers, commercial breeders, and brokers to follow the standards issued in the order.
History:
1994 c 642 s 8; 1997 c 187 art 3 s 31
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.01 — Owner's Liability; Penalty.

347.01 OWNER'S LIABILITY; PENALTY.
(a) Owners or keepers of any dog or dogs, that kill, wound, or worry any domestic animal or animals, shall be jointly and severally liable to the owner of such animal or animals for all damages done by such dog or dogs, without proving notice to or knowledge by any such owner or keeper of such dog or dogs, that any or either of them was mischievous or disposed to kill or worry any domestic animal.
(b) The owner of any dog that kills or pursues domestic livestock is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.
History:
(7284) RL s 2786; 1915 c 344 s 1; 1985 c 269 s 2
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.02 — Keeping After Notice; Penalty.

347.02 KEEPING AFTER NOTICE; PENALTY.
Every person who shall keep or harbor a dog which has bitten any domestic animal, after having notice of such fact, shall pay a fine of $5 for every day the person keeps, harbors, or permits such dog to remain on the person's premises thereafter.
History:
(7285) RL s 2787; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.03 — Dogs May Be Killed.

347.03 DOGS MAY BE KILLED.
Any owner or caretaker may kill any dog found chasing, injuring, or worrying sheep or other livestock or poultry owned by or in care of such owner or caretaker, on lands or premises owned or controlled by the owner or caretaker, and any owner or caretaker of sheep may kill any dog found on the owner's or caretaker's premises where sheep are kept, not under human restraint or control.
History:
(7286) RL s 2788; 1927 c 217 s 1; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.04 — Public Nuisance.

347.04 PUBLIC NUISANCE.
Any dog that habitually worries, chases, or molests teams or persons traveling peaceably on the public road is a public nuisance. Upon complaint in writing to a district court judge containing a description of the dog, including the name of the dog and its owner, or stating that the name or names are not known, and alleging that the dog is a public nuisance, the judge shall issue a summons, if the owner is known, commanding the owner to appear before the judge at a specified time, not less than six nor more than ten days from the date of the summons, to answer the complaint. The summons shall be served not less than six days before the day of the hearing in the same manner as other district court summonses.
History:
(7287) RL s 2789; 1983 c 359 s 37; 1986 c 444; 1998 c 254 art 2 s 35; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 8
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.05 — Owner Not Known.

347.05 OWNER NOT KNOWN.
If it appears from the complaint that the owner is not known, ten days' posted notice, containing a description of the dog as given in the complaint, and stating that a complaint has been made, and the time and place of hearing on it, shall be given in the town where the judge presides.
History:
(7288) RL s 2790; 1983 c 359 s 38
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.06 — Hearing; Judgment; Execution.

347.06 HEARING; JUDGMENT; EXECUTION.
The judge shall hear the evidence in the case. Upon finding that the dog is a public nuisance, the judge shall enter judgment accordingly, and shall order the appropriate public official to kill and dispose of the dog.
History:
(7289) RL s 2791; 1983 c 359 s 39; 1986 c 444; 2007 c 13 art 1 s 15
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.07 — Costs.

347.07 COSTS.
Costs in the first instance shall be paid by the complainant, but if the dog is adjudged a nuisance, and the owner is known, judgment shall be entered against the owner therefor.
History:
(7290) RL s 2792; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.08 — County Board May License.

347.08 COUNTY BOARD MAY LICENSE.
Subdivision 1.
Establishment of licensing system.
The board of county commissioners of any county is hereby authorized to establish a system of licensing and regulating the running at large of dogs, except in cities of the first class, and create a livestock indemnity fund to be handled and disbursed as hereinafter provided.
Before regulating and licensing, there must be filed with the county auditor a petition signed by at least 25 percent of the persons actually engaged in raising livestock, including poultry, in the county, as shown by the assessors' records, requesting the board to establish such system. When the petition has been filed the board of county commissioners shall establish such system; or the board of county commissioners may, by a majority vote, on their own motion and without petition, establish such system. The board of county commissioners shall exclude from the operation of sections 347.08 to 347.21, statutory cities, second, third, and fourth class cities if such city has in operation a satisfactory law regulating dogs running at large.
Subd. 2.
Revocation of system.
At any time after such system has been in effect for a period of two years from the date of its establishment, it may be revoked by a majority vote of the board of county commissioners, but provided that before such revocation the board shall hold a public hearing and give at least ten days' notice of such hearing by publication in at least one newspaper published or circulating in the county.
History:
(7297-41) 1939 c 410 s 1; 1943 c 294 s 1; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.09 — Licenses.

347.09 LICENSES.
In every county in which sections 347.08 to 347.21 shall become operative every dog more than six months of age must have a license. The owner of any dog (the word "owner," when used in sections 347.08 to 347.21, in relation to property in, or possession of, dogs shall include every person who owns, harbors, or keeps a dog) shall, on or before February 1 each year, obtain a license for the dog, and shall pay for such license the fee prescribed by the county commissioners, which shall not be less than 50 cents nor more than $1 for a male dog and not less than $1 nor more than $2 for a female dog; such payments to be made to the town, or city clerk or deputy. The application for such license shall be in such written form as prescribed by the county auditor, and shall state the name, sex, breed, age, color and marking of the dog for which the license is sought.
The license year shall correspond to the calendar year. The sale or transfer of any licensed dog shall carry with it and transfer the license.
History:
(7297-42) 1939 c 410 s 2; 1943 c 294 s 2; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.10 — Owners Of Dogs And Kennels; Licenses.

347.10 OWNERS OF DOGS AND KENNELS; LICENSES.
The term "kennel" shall mean any establishment where dogs are kept for the purpose of breeding, sale or sporting purposes. Any person who keeps or operates a kennel may, in lieu of the license for each dog required by sections 347.08 to 347.21, apply to the town or city treasurer for a kennel license for the keeping or operating of such kennel. For such a kennel license the person shall pay a fee of $10 for the license year. With the kennel license the clerk shall issue a number of metal tags equal to the number of dogs kept in the kennel. The tags shall be made in a form so that they may be readily distinguishable from the individual license tags for the same year. The licensee of a kennel shall at all times keep one of such tags attached to the collar of each dog over six months old kept under a kennel license. The tags may be transferred from one dog to another within the kennel whenever any dog is removed from the kennel. The clerk may appoint a deputy or deputies to issue such licenses. The clerk shall receive ten cents for each license issued, to be paid by the town out of the revenue fund.
A license shall be issued by the clerk or the clerk's deputy upon application being made therefor and upon payments made as herein provided. The license shall be in the form prescribed by the county auditor and shall be executed by the proper town, or city clerk or deputy. The license shall state the year for which it was issued, shall bear a serial number, the owner's name and address, and the name, sex, breed, and color of the dog licensed.
History:
(7297-43) 1939 c 410 s 3; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1986 c 444; 1993 c 375 art 3 s 41
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.11 — Dog Collars To Be Tagged.

347.11 DOG COLLARS TO BE TAGGED.
Subdivision 1.
Metal tags and license blanks.
The clerk or the clerk's deputy issuing a license shall at the same time deliver to the licensee a metal tag, which shall bear the same serial number as the license. The tag shall also bear the name of the county in which issued and the license year. The county auditor shall contract for and have prepared and furnished, annually, a sufficient number of such metal tags, and a sufficient supply of suitable blank licenses to be bound in books of proper size and perforated so that a duplicate of each license may be kept upon the stub thereof. The cost of making, printing, and furnishing the tags and blank license receipts shall be paid out of the dog license fund.
Subd. 2.
Distribution.
The several county auditors shall distribute these tags and license blanks to the several town and city treasurers in proper amounts, together with blank license receipts. The licensee shall securely attach the tag to a collar and this collar, with the tag attached, shall at all times be kept on the dog for which the license is issued. A new tag, with a new number, shall be furnished to the licensee by the town or city clerk, or deputy, in place of the original tag, upon presentation of the license and proof of the loss of the original tag. The town clerk or deputy shall then endorse the new tag number on the license and shall enter it upon the register. The clerk shall receive for services rendered in issuing the new tag the sum of ten cents, to be paid by the person obtaining the new tag.
Subd. 3.
Duplicates to be kept; accounting.
Every town or city clerk, or clerk's deputy, shall, at the time of issuing a license and before delivering it, make a complete duplicate thereof upon the stub portion of the license blank. The clerk shall, annually, during the month of January, return to the county auditor all unused tags of the preceding year, together with license books therefor and all duplicate licenses of the preceding year, and the county auditor shall carefully check the returned tags, duplicate licenses, and license blanks to ascertain whether all tags and license blanks which were furnished by the county auditor have been accounted for; and to enable the county auditor to do that, the county auditor shall charge each town or city clerk with all tags and blank licenses furnished or delivered to the clerk and credit the clerk with those returned. In case of discrepancy, the county auditor shall notify the county attorney, who shall investigate and take steps to enforce the law.
History:
(7297-44) 1939 c 410 s 4; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 347 — Dogs And Cats › Section 347.12 — Fees Paid To County Treasurer Monthly.

347.12 FEES PAID TO COUNTY TREASURER MONTHLY.
Every town, or city clerk, or clerk's deputy, shall at the end of each month pay all license fees received and not before paid, to the county treasurer and, at the same time, report, in writing, to the county auditor the licenses issued during the month and for which the license fees so deposited with the county treasurer were paid. The report shall be in the form prescribed and furnished by the several county auditors.
History:
(7297-45) 1939 c 410 s 5; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1986 c 444