Florida § 705.19 - Abandonment of animals by owner; procedure for handling.
Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 705.19 — Abandonment of animals by owner; procedure for handling., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 705.19. Abandonment of animals by owner; procedure for handling.
(1) Any animal placed in the custody of a licensed veterinarian or bona fide boarding kennel for treatment, boarding, or other care, which shall be abandoned by its owner or the owner’s agent for a period of more than 10 days after written notice is given to the owner or the owner’s agent at her or his last known address may be turned over to the custody of the nearest humane society or dog pound in the area for disposal as such custodian may deem proper. (2) The giving of notice to the owner, or the agent of the owner, of such animal by the licensed veterinarian or kennel operator as provided in subsection (1) shall relieve the veterinarian or kennel operator and any custodian to whom such animal may be given of any further liability for disposal. Such procedure by a licensed veterinarian shall not constitute grounds for disciplinary procedure under chapter 474. (3) For the purpose of this section, the term “abandonment” means to forsake entirely or to neglect or refuse to provide or perform the legal obligations for care and support of an animal by its owner or the owner’s agent. Such abandonment shall constitute the relinquishment of all rights and claim by the owner to such animal.
Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 705.19
What does Florida Statutes § 705.19 cover?
Section 705.19 ("Abandonment of animals by owner; procedure for handling.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. 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 Florida § 705.19?
A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 705.19" (Florida). 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 Florida law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.
How does Florida § 705.19 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida 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 Florida.