GroundRules
← Search the law
South Dakota · Through 2026-08-31

SDCL § 40-1-1: Definition of terms.

Read at publisher ↗
Where this section sits in the code
  1. TITLE 40. ANIMALS AND LIVESTOCK
  2. CHAPTER 40-1. CRUELTY, ABUSE AND INJURY TO ANIMALS

Terms used in chapters 40-1 and 40-2, mean:

(1) "Abandon," to give up with the intent of never again regaining one's interests in, or rights to, an animal other than placing ownership with a responsible party;

(2) "Animal," any mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian, or fish, except humans;

(3) "Board," the South Dakota Animal Industry Board;

(4) "Cruelty," to intentionally, willfully, and maliciously inflict gross physical abuse on an animal that causes prolonged pain, that causes serious physical injury, or that results in the death of the animal;

(5) "Dangerous animal," any animal that, by itself or by environmental circumstances, at the determination of the board, any agent or officer of a humane society, or any law enforcement officer, is a threat to the physical well-being of other owned animals or humans;

(6) "Humane killing," to cause the death of an animal in a manner to limit the pain or suffering of the animal as much as reasonably possible under the circumstances;

(7) "Impound," to take physical control and custody of an animal;

(8) "Livestock," any agricultural or commercial animal owned, bred, or raised for profit, but not including dogs, cats, rabbits, or other household pets;

(9) "Mistreat," to cause or permit the continuation of unjustifiable physical pain or suffering of an animal;

(10) "Neglect," to fail to provide food, water, protection from the elements, adequate sanitation, adequate facilities, or care generally considered to be standard and accepted for an animal's health and well-being consistent with the species, breed, physical condition, and type of animal;

(11) "Proper enclosure," a secure confinement in an enclosed or locked facility suitable to prevent a dangerous animal from escaping and to prevent any physical threat to the well-being of any other animal or human.

Collected 2026-09-03T15:18:57Z. Source file · JSON

Browse this collection