It is unlawful for a person who owns or has custody of a cat or dog to relinquish all rights in and duties to care for the cat or dog. This section does not apply to any of the following:
(Code of Iowa, Sec. 717B.8)
1. The delivery of a cat or dog to another person who will accept ownership and custody of the cat or dog.
2. The delivery of a cat or dog to an animal shelter or that has been issued or renewed a valid authorization by the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship under Chapter 162 of the Code of Iowa.
3. A person who relinquishes custody of a cat at a location in which the person does not hold a legal or equitable interest, if previously the person had taken custody of the cat at the same location and provided for the cat’s sterilization by a veterinarian.
(Code of Iowa, Sec. 717B.8)