(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to molest, torture, torment, deprive of necessary sustenance, cruelly beat, needlessly mutilate or kill, wound, injure, poison, abandon or subject to conditions detrimental to its health or general welfare any animal, or to cause or procure such action. "Torture" and "torment" shall be held to include every act, omission or neglect, whereby unjustifiable physical pain, suffering or death is caused or permitted; but such terms shall not be construed to prohibit lawful taking of animals under the jurisdiction and regulation of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission; nor to prohibit duly authorized persons from destroying dangerous, unwanted or injured animals in a humane manner; nor to prohibit the lawful use of animals in scientific research.
(b) It shall be unlawful for any owner or keeper to fail to provide his animal with proper shelter and protection from the weather, sufficient and wholesome food and water to keep his animal in good health and comfort, the opportunity for vigorous daily exercise, veterinary care when needed to prevent suffering, and humane care and treatment.
(Ord. No. 199-3, § 1, 2-6-90; Ord. No. 2020-14, § 1 (part), 12-1-20)
State law reference— Cruelty to animals, G.S. 14-360 et seq.