1. (1) Except as authorized by law, a person shall not confine an animal without an adequate supply of food and water. If an animal is found to be confined without adequate food or water, an officer or agent of the bureau, a peace officer within the peace officer's jurisdiction, or a licensed veterinarian may, from time to time as necessary, enter into and upon any area or building where such animal is confined and supply the animal with adequate food and water; except that such entry shall not be made into a building that is a person's residence, unless by search warrant or court order.
2. (2) Such officer, agent, peace officer, or veterinarian shall not be liable in any action for such entry.
3. (3) Notice of the entry and care shall be given by posting such notification at an entrance to or at a conspicuous place upon such area or building where such animal is confined.
4. (4) In the case of companion animals, if such animal is not cared for by a person other than an agent or officer of the bureau or a peace officer or veterinarian within seventy-two hours of the posting of said notification, such animal shall be presumed to have been abandoned under circumstances in which the animal's life or health is endangered.

Source: L. 90: Entire article R&RE, p. 1607, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2025: (1) amended, (HB 25-1084), ch. 24, p. 124, § 105, effective August 6.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 35-42-105 as it existed prior to 1990.