Are there any laws that regulate the keeping of exotic animals in captivity?
In Massachusetts, there are laws that regulate the keeping of exotic animals in captivity. The Massachusetts Endangered Species Act makes it a criminal offense to possess, transport, or attempt to own any endangered species. The Act also prohibits harming, harassing, collecting eggs, or hunting any wild animal species, including exotic animals. Moreover, under the state’s General Laws, Chapter 131, Sections 77 and 79, it is a criminal offense to keep any dangerous wild animal, such as a tiger, bear, or elephant, as a pet in Massachusetts. To ensure exotic animals are treated humanely, the state’s animal cruelty laws, General Laws, Chapter 272, Section 77A, prohibit causing any animal to suffer by depriving it of necessary sustenance, confining it in a brutal manner, or inflicting unnecessary and cruel pain or suffering. In addition, the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Wildlife enforces regulations pertaining to the keeping of wild and exotic animals, such as requiring permits to possess certain species. Ultimately, these laws are in place to ensure the safety of both humans and animals.
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