Jerry’s Law

Jerry’s Law is an Arizona animal-protection law signed in 2025 that significantly strengthens the state’s animal cruelty statutes by clearly defining what constitutes cruelty and neglect.

Under Jerry’s Law, failure to provide the following basic necessities may constitute criminal neglect:

• Adequate food
• Clean water
• Safe shelter
• Necessary veterinary care

By closing long-standing loopholes, Jerry’s Law gives law enforcement and prosecutors clearer authority to intervene earlier and take action before animals suffer severe harm or death.

The law is named after Jerry, a severely neglected dog whose case drew public attention to weaknesses in Arizona’s animal cruelty laws. Jerry’s Law represents an important step forward in holding abusers accountable and ensuring animals receive the basic care and legal protection they deserve.

What Jerry’s Law Does

• Clearly defines animal cruelty and neglect standards
• Allows earlier intervention before conditions become fatal
• Strengthens enforcement and prosecution clarity
• Improves protection for vulnerable animals statewide