Legal Question in Criminal Law in Georgia

In 1999, attempts were made to stop the practice of docking altogether in Georgia and have the practice classified as "animal cruelty." The attempts ultimately failed, but you are still subject to OCGA � 4-8-5, which I've copied and pasted below for you.

OCGA Section 4-8-5. Performing cruel acts on, or harming, maiming or killing dogs

(a) No person shall perform a cruel act on any dog; nor shall any person harm, maim, or kill any dog, or attempt to do so, except that a person may:

(1) Defend his person or property, or the person or property of another, from injury or damage being caused by a dog; or

(2) Kill any dog causing injury or damage to any livestock or poultry.

(b) The method used for killing the dog shall be designed to be as humane as is possible under the circumstances. A person who humanely kills a dog under the circumstances indicated in subsection (a) of this Code section shall incur no liability for such death.

(c) This Code section shall not be construed to limit in any way the authority or duty of any law enforcement officer, dog or rabies control officer, humane society, or veterinarian.

Best of luck.******The above is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client privilege.*******