Policy Documents

Animal Liability and Guardianship

Victor E. Schwartz and Phil S. Goldberg –
January 1, 2006

For thousands of years, animals have been integral to society, both as workers and as domesticated companions.  Since the founding of the United States of America and the establishment of American jurisprudence, the laws governing animal ownership and animal care have been remarkably consistent, creating a stable legal system that promotes responsible animal ownership, deters animal abuse, and promotes innovative, affordable, and quality animal care.