Washington § 16.52.207 - Animal cruelty in the second degree — Penalty.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 16.52.207 — Animal cruelty in the second degree — Penalty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16.52.207. Animal cruelty in the second degree — Penalty.

(1) A person is guilty of animal cruelty in the second degree if, under circumstances not amounting to first degree animal cruelty:
(a) The person knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence inflicts unnecessary suffering or pain upon an animal;
(b) The person takes control, custody, or possession of an animal that was involved in animal fighting as described in RCW 16.52.117 and knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence abandons the animal; or
(c) The person willfully instigates, engages in, or in any way furthers any act of animal cruelty to any animal.
(2) An owner of, or a person in possession or control of, residing with, or who has accepted responsibility for, an animal is guilty of animal cruelty in the second degree if, under circumstances not amounting to first degree animal cruelty, the person knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence:
(a) Fails to provide the animal with necessary food, water, shelter, rest, sanitation, space, or medical attention and the animal suffers unnecessary or unjustifiable physical pain as a result of the failure; or
(b) Abandons the animal.
(3) Animal cruelty in the second degree is a gross misdemeanor.
(4) Nothing in this section prohibits accepted animal husbandry practices or prohibits a licensed veterinarian or certified veterinary technician from performing procedures on an animal that are accepted veterinary medical practices.
[ 2025 c 220 s 6; 2020 c 158 s 7; 2019 c 174 s 2; 2011 c 172 s 5; 2007 c 376 s 1; 2005 c 481 s 2; 1994 c 261 s 9.]

Notes

Finding—Intent—1994 c 261: See note following RCW 16.52.011.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 16.52.207

What does Revised Code of Washington § 16.52.207 cover?

Section 16.52.207 ("Animal cruelty in the second degree — Penalty.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. 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 Washington § 16.52.207?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 16.52.207" (Washington). 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 Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 16.52.207 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington 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 Washington.