Pennsylvania § 5533 - Cruelty to animal.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5533 — Cruelty to animal., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5533. Cruelty to animal.
(a) Offense defined.--A person commits an offense if the person intentionally, knowingly or recklessly illtreats, overloads, beats, abandons or abuses an animal.
(b) Grading.--
(1) Except as set forth in paragraph (2), a violation of this section is a summary offense.
(2) If the violation causes bodily injury to the animal or places the animal at imminent risk of serious bodily injury, a violation of this section is a misdemeanor of the second degree.
Cross References. Section 5533 is referred to in sections 5534, 5542, 5560, 9122.3 of this title; section 5329 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations); section 6138 of Title 61 (Prisons and Parole).
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 5533
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5533 cover?
Section 5533 ("Cruelty to animal.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania § 5533?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5533" (Pennsylvania). 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 Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 5533 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.