§2160 Prohibition on Slaughter of Dogs and Cats for Human Consumption

Summary

People may not intentionally kill a dog or cat so people can eat it, and they may not sell, ship, move, give, receive, or keep a dog, cat, or parts of them to be eaten. The rule only covers actions that cross state or international borders or happen under U.S. special maritime and territorial jurisdiction. Breaking it can bring a fine up to $5,000 for each offense. The rule does not apply when an Indian, as defined in 25 U.S.C. 5304, does one of these things for a religious ceremony. States and local governments can still have animal welfare laws, and they may make stricter rules.