Section 309 - Destruction of aged or neglected animals

(1) A veterinary officer, or a person or a member of a class of persons authorised by the Minister may seize an animal which, in the opinion of the veterinary officer or that person or that member is suffering, or is likely immediately to suffer sickness or neglect by reason of old age.

(2) On the seizure being made, the veterinary officer, or other person shall forthwith furnish a Magistrate with a written report on the matter, embodying in the report the recommendations of the veterinary officer or of that person.

(3) The Magistrate may direct that the owner of the animal, if the owner can be found, be given notice to show cause why the animal should not be destroyed.

(4) Where the owner fails to show sufficient cause why the animal should not be destroyed, or where the owner cannot be found, the Magistrate may direct that the animal be destroyed, and accordingly may assign it to a suitable person, or may make any other appropriate order.