Colorado § 35-42-103 - Definitions.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 35-42-103 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 35-42-103. Definitions.
As used in this article 42, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Abandon" means the leaving of an animal without adequate provisions for the animal's proper care by its owner, the person responsible for the animal's care or custody, or any other person having possession of such animal.
(2) "Accepted animal husbandry" means practices generally recognized as appropriate in the care of animals consistent with the species, breed, and type of animal.
(3) "Animal" means any living dumb creature.
(3.5) "Bureau" means the state bureau of animal protection created in section 35-42-105.
(4) "Commissioner" means the Colorado commissioner of agriculture or the commissioner's designee.
(5) "Companion animal" means domestic dogs, domestic cats, small pet birds, and other nonlivestock species.
(6) "Department" means the Colorado department of agriculture.
(7) "Division" means the division of animal welfare of the department.
(8) "Livestock" means cattle, swine, sheep, goats, and such horses, mules, asses, and other animals used in the farm or ranch production of food, fiber, or other products defined by the commissioner as agricultural products.
(9) "Mistreat" means every act or omission which causes or unreasonably permits the continuation of unnecessary or unjustifiable pain or suffering.
(10) "Neglect" means failure to provide food, water, protection from the elements, or other care generally considered to be normal, usual, and accepted for an animal's health and well-being consistent with the species, breed, and type of animal.
Source: L. 90: Entire article R&RE, p. 1605, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2024: IP and (7) amended, (HB 24-1458), ch. 288, p. 1929, § 4, effective August 7. L. 2025: (3.5) added (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2097, § 286, effective August 6; (4) amended, (HB 25-1084), ch. 24, p. 124, § 103, effective August 6.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 35-42-103
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 35-42-103 cover?
Section 35-42-103 ("Definitions.") is part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Colorado. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Colorado § 35-42-103?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 35-42-103" (Colorado). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Colorado law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Colorado official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Colorado attorney.
How does Colorado § 35-42-103 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Colorado can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.