Full text of Utah Utah Code § 76-13-205 — Dog fighting., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 76-13-205. Dog fighting.
Effective 5/7/2025
76-13-205.
Dog fighting.
| (2) | An actor commits dog fighting if the actor:
| (a) | owns, possesses, keeps, or trains a dog with the intent to engage the dog in an exhibition of fighting with another dog; |
| (b) | causes a dog to fight with another dog or causes a dog to injure another dog for amusement or gain; |
| (c) | ties, attaches, or fastens any live animal to a machine or device propelled by any power, for the purpose of causing the animal to be pursued by a dog; |
| (d) | permits or allows any act that violates Subsection (2)(a), (b), or (c) on any premises under the actor's charge; or |
| (e) | controls, aids, or abets any act that violates Subsection (2)(a), (b), or (c). |
|
| (3) |
| (a) | A violation of Subsection (2) is a third degree felony. |
| (b) | A fine imposed for a violation of Subsection (2) may not exceed $25,000. |
|
| (4) | Possession of a breaking stick, treadmill, wheel, hot walker, cat mill, cat walker, jenni, or other paraphernalia, together with evidence that the paraphernalia is being used or is intended for use in the unlawful training of a dog to fight with another dog, together with the possession of any such dog, is prima facie evidence of violation of Subsection (2)(b) or (c). |
| (5) | Nothing in this section prohibits any of the following:
| (a) | the use of dogs for management of livestock by the owner, the owner's employees or agents, or any other person in the lawful custody of livestock; |
| (b) | the use of dogs for hunting; or |
| (c) | the training of dogs or the possession or use of equipment in the training of dogs for any purpose not prohibited by law. |
|
Renumbered and Amended by Chapter
173, 2025 General Session
Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 76-13-205
What does Utah Code § 76-13-205 cover?
Section 76-13-205 ("Dog fighting.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. 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 Utah § 76-13-205?
A common citation format is "Utah Code § 76-13-205" (Utah). 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 Utah law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.
How does Utah § 76-13-205 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
