# Criminal Law (GCR)

## Title 10. Crimes Against Public Health, Conduct, and Sensibilities

### Subtitle 6. Crimes Relating to Animals

#### Section 10-604.1

(a) A person may not commit a violation of Sec. 10-604 of this subtitle that results in:

  (1) the death of a domestic animal or livestock; or

  (2) the need to euthanize a domestic animal or livestock based on the recommendation of a licensed veterinarian, if the decision to euthanize the domestic animal or livestock is validated before or after the euthanasia by a second licensed veterinarian.

(b) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.

(c) As a condition of sentencing of a defendant convicted of violating this section, the court may:

  (1) order the defendant to:

    (i) participate in and pay for psychological counseling; and

    (ii) pay, in addition to any other fines and costs, all reasonable costs incurred in removing, housing, treating, or euthanizing an animal confiscated from the defendant; and

  (2) prohibit the defendant from owning, possessing, or residing with an animal for a period of time determined by the court.

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Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)