Maine Animal Welfare Laws
A compassionate guide for caregivers, guardians, and community members
Maine has strong laws that protect the wellbeing of animals and support responsible, humane care. These laws apply to companion animals, service animals, livestock, and wildlife in specific situations. Below is a simple overview to help you understand your rights and responsibilities as an animal guardian in Maine.
Basic Care Requirements
Maine law requires that all animals receive:
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Clean water and nutritious food
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Safe shelter that protects them from weather and extreme temperatures
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Necessary medical attention when they are sick or injured
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Humane handling that avoids pain, fear, or suffering
Failing to provide these essentials can be considered neglect or cruelty under state law.
Cruelty & Mistreatment
Cruelty to animals is illegal in Maine. This includes:
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Physical abuse or torment
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Abandoning an animal
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Keeping an animal in unsafe or harmful conditions
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Denying needed veterinary care
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Animal fighting of any kind
Law enforcement and animal welfare officers can intervene, remove animals from dangerous situations, and pursue charges when necessary.
Dogs, Cats & Companion Animals
Maine has specific rules for pets:
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Dog licensing is required each year.
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Dogs may not run at large; towns can impound roaming dogs.
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Stray and abandoned cats may be taken in by shelters under state guidelines.
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Towns must have an Animal Control Officer to respond to concerns.
If your animal goes missing, contacting your town office or local shelter is the first step.
Dangerous Dog Laws
A dog may be legally classified as “dangerous” if it injures a person or another animal. Courts can require:
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Secure confinement
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Muzzling in public
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Mandatory training
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In severe cases, removal from the home
These laws are meant to protect the community while supporting responsible guardianship.
Rabies & Vaccination
Maine requires rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats, and ferrets. The state also supports low‑cost rabies clinics to keep communities safe.
Shelters, Kennels & Pet Shops
Facilities that care for or sell animals must be licensed and inspected. They must follow standards for:
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Cleanliness
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Space
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Veterinary care
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Humane treatment
This helps ensure animals are safe whether they’re being housed, adopted, or sold.
Livestock & Farm Animals
Farm animals are protected under cruelty laws as well. Maine prohibits:
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Cruel confinement of calves and sows
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Denial of food, water, or shelter
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Transporting animals in unsafe or inhumane ways
Farmers must follow humane standards for care, housing, and transport.
Local Ordinances
In addition to state law, towns may have their own rules about:
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Dogs at large
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Nuisance animals
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Livestock
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Wildlife feeding
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Animal noise
Your town office can provide local details.
If You’re Concerned About an Animal
You can contact:
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Your local Animal Control Officer
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The Maine Animal Welfare Program
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A nearby animal shelter
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Local law enforcement (for emergencies)
These agencies can help assess the situation and offer guidance or intervention.
If you’re worried about an animal in Maine
Compassionate resources for safety, support, and next steps
Maine has a dedicated state program that responds to concerns about animal welfare, neglect, or cruelty. If you ever need to reach someone who can help, these are the official contacts.
Maine Animal Welfare Program
The Animal Welfare Program is part of the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry. They oversee animal safety, cruelty investigations, licensing, and emergency response.
Phone Numbers
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Main Office: 207‑287‑3846
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Toll‑Free (Statewide): 1‑877‑269‑9200
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After‑Hours Emergencies: Bangor State Police Barracks – 207‑973‑3700 (They will contact an Animal Welfare representative.)
Mailing Address
Maine Animal Welfare Program 28 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333
Physical Office Location
90 Blossom Lane Augusta, Maine
A Note from Aurora
"As an Earth‑based minister and animal chaplain, I offer spiritual support, grounding, and compassionate presence during times of worry, illness, transition, or loss. If you’re unsure what to do, I can help you understand your options and connect with resources.
As an animal and land chaplain, I do not enforce laws, diagnose, or provide legal or veterinarian advice, but I can help you understand your options, connect with resources, and navigate the emotional landscape of caring for an animal in need."
Photo Credits:
Photo 1: Andrew S
Photo 2: Luke Stackpoole
Photo 3: Erik Mooiman