Georgia § 50-3-88 - Definitions; adoptable dog designated as the official state dog.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 50-3-88 — Definitions; adoptable dog designated as the official state dog., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 50-3-88. Definitions; adoptable dog designated as the official state dog.
As used in this Code section, the term: "Adoptable dog" means any dog in the custody of any animal shelter, humane society, or public or private animal refuge that is available for adoption by the general public. "Animal shelter" shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 4-14-2. "Humane society" shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 4-14-2. "Public or private animal refuge" shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 4-14-2. The adoptable dog is designated as the official Georgia state dog. (Code 1981, § 50-3-88 , enacted by Ga. L. 2016, p. 212, § 2/SB 168; Ga. L. 2017, p. 774, § 50/HB 323.) Effective date. - This Code section became effective July 1, 2016. The 2017 amendment, effective May 9, 2017, part of an Act to revise, modernize, and correct the Code, substituted "As used in this Code section, the term:" for "As used in this Code section:" in the introductory language of subsection (a). Code Commission notes. - Pursuant to Code Section 28-9-5, in 2016, Code Section 50-3-87, as enacted by Ga. L. 2016, p. 212, § 2/SB 168, was redesignated as Code Section 50-3-88. Editor's notes. - Ga. L. 2016, p. 212, § 2/SB 168, not codified by the General Assembly, provides that: "The General Assembly finds and declares as follows: "(1) The National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy estimates that a majority of animals taken into shelters are euthanized; "(2) Thousands of dogs and cats are currently available for adoption in Georgia animal shelters, humane societies, and private rescue groups; "(3) Responsible pet ownership that includes spay and neuter of dogs and cats not being actively bred by owners will reduce the number of unwanted dogs and cats that are euthanized in Georgia every year; "(4) The State of Georgia wishes to promote responsible stewardship of dogs and cats; and "(5) The State of Georgia wishes to promote animal rescue and adoption."
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 50-3-88
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 50-3-88 cover?
Section 50-3-88 ("Definitions; adoptable dog designated as the official state dog.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. 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 Georgia § 50-3-88?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 50-3-88" (Georgia). 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 Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 50-3-88 apply to my situation?
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