Massachusetts § 164 - Failure to euthanize, confine or restrain dog after notice
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 164 — Failure to euthanize, confine or restrain dog after notice, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 164. Failure to euthanize, confine or restrain dog after notice
Section 164. A person who owns or keeps a dog and who has received such notice under section 163 and does not, within 24 hours, euthanize the dog or thereafter keep it on the owner's or keeper's premises or under the immediate restraint and control of some person, shall be punished by a fine of not less than $25 and a police officer, constable or animal control officer may euthanize the dog in a humane manner if it is found outside the enclosure of its owner or keeper and not under the owner or keeper's immediate care.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 164
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 164 cover?
Section 164 ("Failure to euthanize, confine or restrain dog after notice") 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 § 164?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 164" (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 § 164 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.