Connecticut § 53-251 - Docking of horses' tails.
Full text of Connecticut Connecticut General Statutes § 53-251 — Docking of horses' tails., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53-251. Docking of horses' tails.
Sec. 53-251. Docking of horses' tails. (a) Any person who cuts the bone of the tail of any horse for the purpose of docking the tail or who cuts the muscles or tendons of the tail of a horse, or otherwise operates upon it in any manner for the purpose or with the effect of altering the natural carriage of the tail, or who causes or knowingly permits such cutting or operation to be done upon premises of which he is the owner, lessee, proprietor or user, or assists in or is present at such cutting or operation, shall be fined not more than three hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than one year or both. Any horse with a tail set or apparently with a tail set shall be accessible and subject to inspection by any officer or agent of the Connecticut Humane Society.
(b) If a horse is found with the bone, muscles or tendons of its tail so cut and with the wound resulting from such cutting unhealed upon the premises of any person, such facts shall be prima facie evidence that the person who occupies or has the use of the premises on which such horse is so found has committed the offense described in subsection (a). If a horse is found with the bone, muscles or tendons of its tail so cut and with the wound resulting from such cutting unhealed in the charge or custody of any person, such facts shall be prima facie evidence that the person having the charge or custody of such horse has committed the offense charged in said subsection (a).
(c) No provision of this section shall be construed to prevent the operation by a registered veterinarian upon the tail of a horse when such operation is necessary for the health of the horse or is the means of effecting the natural carriage of its tail.
(1949 Rev., S. 8575.)
Source: official Connecticut text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut § 53-251
What does Connecticut General Statutes § 53-251 cover?
Section 53-251 ("Docking of horses' tails.") is part of the Connecticut General Statutes, the codified statutory law of Connecticut. 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 Connecticut § 53-251?
A common citation format is "Connecticut General Statutes § 53-251" (Connecticut). 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 Connecticut law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Connecticut official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Connecticut attorney.
How does Connecticut § 53-251 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Connecticut 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 Connecticut.