Wisconsin § 173.13 - Taking custody of animals.
Full text of Wisconsin Wisconsin Statutes § 173.13 — Taking custody of animals., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 173.13. Taking custody of animals.
173.13(1) (1) Intake. 173.13(1)(a) (a) A humane officer, on behalf of a political subdivision in which the humane officer has jurisdiction under s. 173.03 (3) , or a law enforcement officer, on behalf of a political subdivision, may take custody of an animal if the humane officer or law enforcement officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the animal is one of the following: 173.13(1)(a)1. 1. An abandoned or stray animal. 173.13(1)(a)2. 2. An unwanted animal delivered to the humane officer or law enforcement officer. 173.13(1)(a)3. 3. A dog not tagged as required by ch. 174 . 173.13(1)(a)4. 4. An animal not licensed in compliance with any ordinance. 173.13(1)(a)5. 5. An animal not confined as required by a quarantine order under any statute, rule or ordinance relating to the control of any animal disease. 173.13(1)(a)6. 6. An animal that has caused damage to persons or property. 173.13(1)(a)8. 8. An animal used in any crime under s.
Source: official Wisconsin text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin § 173.13
What does Wisconsin Statutes § 173.13 cover?
Section 173.13 ("Taking custody of animals.") is part of the Wisconsin Statutes, the codified statutory law of Wisconsin. 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 Wisconsin § 173.13?
A common citation format is "Wisconsin Statutes § 173.13" (Wisconsin). 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 Wisconsin law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Wisconsin official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Wisconsin attorney.
How does Wisconsin § 173.13 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin.