# Criminal Law (GCR)

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

### Subtitle 6. Crimes Relating to Animals

#### Section 10-604

(a) A person may not:

  (1) overdrive or overload an animal;

  (2) deprive an animal of necessary sustenance;

  (3) inflict unnecessary suffering or pain on an animal;

  (4) cause, procure, or authorize an act prohibited under item (1), (2), or (3) of this subsection; or

  (5) if the person has charge or custody of an animal, as owner or otherwise, unnecessarily fail to provide the animal with:

    (i) nutritious food in sufficient quantity;

    (ii) necessary veterinary care;

    (iii) proper drink;

    (iv) proper air;

    (v) proper space;

    (vi) proper shelter; or

    (vii) proper protection from the weather.

(b)

  (1) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

  (2) As a condition of sentencing, the court may order a defendant convicted of violating this section 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.

  (3) As a condition of probation, the court may prohibit a defendant from owning, possessing, or residing with an animal.

---

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