Learn About The Law
Get help with your legal needs
FindLaw’s Learn About the Law features thousands of informational articles to help you understand your options. And if you’re ready to hire an attorney, find one in your area who can help.
Current as of January 01, 2025 | Updated by Findlaw Staff
Sec. 18838. (1) A veterinarian may dispose of an animal placed in the veterinarian's custody for treatment, boarding, or other care and abandoned by its owner by sending the notices required by this section. The veterinarian shall send a first written notice of an intent to dispose of the animal by certified mail to the owner, at his or her last known address and a second written notice not less than 5 days after sending the first notice. Upon the expiration of 5 days after sending the second written notice to the owner, a veterinarian may dispose of the animal.
(2) The disposal of an animal does not release the owner from payment of costs incurred, including the disposal.
(3) This section does not prevent the owner or agent from mitigating additional costs by removing the animal from custody of the veterinarian.
(4) In the case of an animal abandoned by its owner, the owner is considered to have relinquished all rights to the animal.
Cite this article: FindLaw.com - Michigan Compiled Laws, Chapter 333. Health § 333.18838 - last updated January 01, 2025 | https://codes.findlaw.com/mi/chapter-333-health/mi-comp-laws-333-18838/
FindLaw Codes may not reflect the most recent version of the law in your jurisdiction. Please verify the status of the code you are researching with the state legislature before relying on it for your legal needs.
A free source of state and federal court opinions, state laws, and the United States Code. For more information about the legal concepts addressed by these cases and statutes, visit FindLaw’s Learn About the Law.
Get help with your legal needs
FindLaw’s Learn About the Law features thousands of informational articles to help you understand your options. And if you’re ready to hire an attorney, find one in your area who can help.
Search our directory by legal issue
Enter information in one or both fields (Required)