Massachusetts § 26D - Behavior or temperament assessment or veterinary records for animals in foster or pre-adoptive homes
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 26D — Behavior or temperament assessment or veterinary records for animals in foster or pre-adoptive homes, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 26D. Behavior or temperament assessment or veterinary records for animals in foster or pre-adoptive homes
Section 26D. (a) The department may request that a foster or pre-adoptive parent applicant or a foster or pre-adoptive parent obtain and provide a copy of a behavior or temperament assessment or provide veterinary records for any animal maintained on premises used as a foster or pre-adoptive home. The cost of the behavior or temperament assessment shall be borne by the foster or pre-adoptive parent or applicant. The department shall not restrict placement of a child solely based on the presence of a particular breed of dog in the home; provided, however, that the department may consider: (i) the age of the child; (ii) any prior incidents of dangerous behavior between the child and animals in previous placements; (iii) veterinary records, including, but not limited to, whether the animal may have disease and parasites; provided, however, that the department may contact the veterinarian for a reference or additional information; (iv) whether the animal is licensed and vaccinated as prescribed by sections 145B and 147 of chapter 140 or any other law or local ordinance or by-law; (v) the age and size of the animal; (vi) whether the animal has been neutered; (vii) a copy of a behavior or temperament assessment for the animal; (viii) any prior incidents of dangerous behavior or incidents by the animal; (ix) behavioral characteristics of the child; (x) the number of animals on the premises; and (xi) whether the animal is penned or caged at any time, and if so, under what circumstances and for what purpose.
(b) The department may request that a foster or pre-adoptive parent applicant or a foster or pre-adoptive parent obtain and provide to the department any other information deemed necessary for the department to make a determination on the safety and well-being of the child as it relates to the status of any animal in the home.
(c) The department may promulgate regulations necessary to administer this section.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 26D
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 26D cover?
Section 26D ("Behavior or temperament assessment or veterinary records for animals in foster or pre-adoptive homes") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts § 26D?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 26D" (Massachusetts). 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 Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 26D apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts.