(A) A person is guilty of violating this section when, except as authorized by law, he intentionally or wantonly:
(1) Subjects any animal to or causes cruel or injurious mistreatment through abandonment, participates other than as provided in KRS 525.125 in causing it to fight for pleasure or profit (including, but not limited to, being a spectator or vendor at an event where a four-legged animal is caused to fight for pleasure or profit), mutilation, beating, torturing, tormenting, failing to provide adequate food, drink, space or health care, or by any other means; or
(2) Subjects any animal in his custody to cruel neglect; or
(3) Kills any animal.
(B) Nothing in this section shall apply to the killing of animals:
(1) Pursuant to a license to hunt, fish or trap;
(2) Incident to the processing as food or for other commercial purposes;
(3) For humane purposes;
(4) For any other purpose authorized by law.
(1986 Code) Penalty, see § 51.999
Statutory reference:
Cruelty to animals in first degree, see KRS 525.125