Animal cruelty includes a wide range of behaviors that are mistreatment of animals—from neglect (depriving an animal of food, water, shelter, or veterinary care) to torturing, maiming, mutilating, and killing animals. Animal cruelty laws vary from state to state, and are usually included in a state’s statutes.
In Minnesota, animal cruelty is addressed under Minnesota Statutes, sections 343.20 to 343.40. The laws prohibit acts of cruelty, torture, neglect, and mistreatment of animals. Neglect includes failing to provide necessary food, water, shelter, or veterinary care. More severe acts, such as torture, maiming, mutilating, or killing an animal in a manner that deviates from customary farm practices or is not for a justifiable purpose, are considered more serious offenses and can result in felony charges. Penalties for animal cruelty in Minnesota can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense and whether it is a first-time or repeat violation. Additionally, Minnesota law allows for the seizure of mistreated animals and requires law enforcement to report suspected animal cruelty to the appropriate authorities.