Is there a 10-day time limit to petition for custody of an animal once it is seized?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only if magistrate orders
• D. Within 30 days

Answer: (A)

The important idea here is that there is a defined, short window for challenging a seizure by requesting custody of the animal. After an animal is seized, a petition for custody (to reclaim or maintain the animal under your care) must be filed within ten days. This clock starts when the seizure occurs (and notices are typically provided), ensuring a timely due process review by a magistrate or court.

If the petition is filed within that ten-day period, a hearing can be held to determine custody and the owner’s rights. If the petition isn’t filed in time, the animal may be dispositioned—often adopted out or moved to other arrangements—subject to any later court orders. Extensions can sometimes be granted for good cause, but the default rule is a ten-day limit, not longer.