(6)9.1.1 Animal Cruelty in the First Degree
A person is guilty of Animal Cruelty in the Second Degree under this subsection if he or she willfully:
(a) intentionally or recklessly inflicts physical injury, pain, or suffering upon any animal, whether domesticated, captive, or wild; or
(b) abandons, confines, or restrains an animal in a manner that poses a substantial risk of injury, suffering, or death; or
(c) engages in conduct involving the neglect or deprivation of necessary food, water, shelter, or veterinary care; or
(d) uses an animal for fighting, baiting, or similar activities in violation of law; and
(e) such mistreatment causes the death of the animal; or
(f) the offender has previously been convicted of Animal Cruelty or Animal Neglect in any degree.
(g) This subsection shall not apply to lawful conduct including:
- veterinary care, medical treatment, or euthanasia performed by a licensed professional;
- hunting, farming, or agricultural practices conducted in compliance with applicable law;
- lawful scientific, educational, or law enforcement activities.
Animal Cruelty in the Second Degree is a Class C+ Felony.