- Law: Animal control officers or other authorized personnel may seize or humanely trap stray cats or small animals and deliver them to a designated shelter. (read full version)
- Explanation:
Title 7: AGRICULTURE AND ANIMALS
Part 9: ANIMAL WELFARE
Chapter 720: RABIES PREVENTION AND SHELTER PROVISIONS
§3919. Seizure of Stray Cats and Small Animals
Maine law under §3919 establishes the guidelines for the seizure and handling of stray cats and small animals. These provisions ensure that stray animals are treated humanely while providing a process for reuniting them with their owners or handling them appropriately if the owner cannot be found.
Definition of a Stray Cat
A stray cat is defined as a cat that is found on the property of someone other than its owner without that person’s consent. Additionally, a cat found on public streets or other public property without the owner’s physical control is also considered a stray. This definition clarifies when a cat is regarded as being lost or abandoned, which triggers intervention from animal control officers.
Seizure by Animal Control Officer
Animal control officers, or individuals acting in that capacity, have the authority to seize or humanely trap stray cats or small animals. Once captured, the animal must be delivered to an animal shelter or returned to the owner if the owner is known. If the owner cannot be identified, the stray animal may be treated as homeless and handled according to the laws regarding the acceptance and disposition of homeless animals, such as those detailed in §3919-A and §3919-E. This process ensures that stray animals receive shelter and care while efforts are made to locate their owners.
Handling Stray Animals Found by the Public
Individuals who come across a stray cat or small animal but do not know who the owner is or where the animal belongs are allowed to take the animal to the designated municipal animal shelter. This shelter will then assume responsibility for the animal, ensuring that it is cared for and possibly reunited with its owner. This provision allows the public to assist in the humane treatment of lost or abandoned animals while ensuring the process is overseen by the proper authorities.
Section History
This section of Maine law was introduced in 2001 and has been updated to reflect amendments in 2013. These changes help clarify the role of both the public and animal control officers in the humane handling of stray cats and small animals, reinforcing the importance of animal welfare throughout the state.
- Procedure: If a stray is identified, it will be held by the shelter for a minimum of 6 days, giving the owner time to reclaim their pet before it’s put up for adoption or other disposition.
