Who bears the legal responsibilities for a pet's wellbeing?

The legal responsibilities for a pet's wellbeing primarily rest with the responsible party, which typically refers to the pet owner. This individual or entity is accountable for providing appropriate care, ensuring the animal's health and safety, and adhering to local and state animal welfare laws. The owner must meet the basic needs of the pet, including proper nutrition, veterinary care, exercise, and a safe living environment.

While veterinarians play a crucial role in the health and wellbeing of pets by providing medical care and advice, they are not legally responsible for the overall wellbeing of the animal as a pet owner is. Similarly, local governments may enforce regulations regarding pet ownership and welfare, but it is ultimately the owner who bears the legal responsibility for their pet's care. The general public may have an interest in animal welfare, but they do not hold legal responsibility for individual pets unless they have taken on that specific role, such as through foster care or ownership.