Washington legal term

Pet animal in Washington Criminal Law

Current through 2026 Washington legislative session

In Washington criminal law, “Pet animal” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Washington criminal code.

What does “Pet animal” mean in Washington criminal law?

"Pet animal" means a tamed or domesticated animal legally retained by a person and kept as a companion. (RCW 9.08.065)

Statutes defining or using this term

RCW 9.08.065

Charges using this term

Transferring stolen pet animal to a person who has previously sold a stolen pet animal to a research institution
Transferring stolen pet animal to a research institution
Transferring stolen pet animal to a research institution by a U.S.D.A. licensed dealer

Related terms in the same statutes

Transfer
Felony
Conviction
Receive
To sell
Stolen
Research institution
Possession
Adult
Theft
Stolen property
Licensed dealer

This reference is informational and is not legal advice.