Massachusetts § 54A - Definitions applicable to Secs. 54 to 60
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 54A — Definitions applicable to Secs. 54 to 60, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 54A. Definitions applicable to Secs. 54 to 60
Section 54A. In sections fifty-four to sixty, inclusive, the following words shall have the following meanings:
''Animal'', any animal other than man including wild or domestic fowl, birds, fish or reptiles, living or dead.
''Approved veterinary school'', any veterinary college or division of a university or college that offers the degree of doctor of veterinary medicine or its equivalent and which conforms to the standards required for accreditation by the American Veterinary Medical Association, the board of veterinary medicine of the commonwealth, or the approving authority.
''Approving authority'', (a) Two members from the board of registration in veterinary medicine; (b) One veterinary officer from the division of animal health; and (c) One member representing the Massachusetts Veterinary Association.
''Board'', the board of registration in veterinary medicine of the commonwealth.
''Veterinarian'', a person who has received a doctors' degree in veterinary medicine from a school of veterinary medicine.
''Veterinary medicine'', means and includes veterinary surgery, obstetrics, dentistry, and all other branches or specialties of veterinary medicine.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 54A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 54A cover?
Section 54A ("Definitions applicable to Secs. 54 to 60") 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 § 54A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 54A" (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 § 54A 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.