Maryland Code
Criminal Law
Title 10: Crimes Against Public Health, Conduct and Sensibilities
Subtitle 6: Crimes Relating to Animals
§ 10-604. Abuse or neglect of animal.
(A) Prohibited. 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;
(5) If the person has charge or custody of an animal, as owner or otherwise, unnecessarily fail to provide the animal with nutritious food in sufficient quantity, necessary veterinary care, proper drink, air, space, shelter, or protection from the weather.
(B) Penalty.
(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 participate in and pay for psychological counseling.
