North Dakota Century Code
Title 36: Livestock
CHAPTER 36-21.1
Humane Treatment of Animals
36-21.1-01. Definitions.
 (1) “Abandoned Animal” means an animal that is or reasonably appears to have been deserted by its owner or keeper. The term may include an animal that is running loose on property other than that of its owner or the owner’s agent if the animal bears no identification indicating the owner or the owner’s agent and the owner or owner’s agent is not known to the sheriff, police officer, licensed veterinarian, or investigator taking custody of the animal under this chapter.
 (2) “Adequate Care” means normal and prudent attention to the needs of an animal, including wholesome food, clean water, shelter, and health care, as necessary to maintain good health in a specific species of animal.
 (3) “Animal” includes every living animal except the human race.
 (4) “Commissioner” means the agriculture commissioner.
 (5) “Cruelty” or “torture” means any act, omission, or neglect whereby unnecessary or unjustifiable pain, suffering, or death is caused or permitted. The term does not include:
  (a) Any activity that requires a license or permit under chapter 20.1-03;
  (b) Any activity that is usual and customary practice in production agriculture;
  (c) Any scientific research conducted at a public or private facility or laboratory by or under the direction of a qualified researcher;
  (d) Any show, fair, competition, performance, or parade;
  (e) A rodeo;
  (f) A wagon or buggy ride;
  (g) Trail or pleasure riding; or
  (h) Any activity that involves the training or teaching of animals.
 (6) “Investigator” means any person approved by the board to determine whether there has been a violation of this chapter.
