AZ HB2997

Creates new standalone offenses of "animal abuse" and "animal neglect" in Arizona law, separate from existing cruelty to animals provisions, with animal abuse divided into second degree (reckless), first degree (intentional/knowing), and aggravated (torture/mutilation with depravity of mind), and animal neglect divided into second degree (failure to provide minimum care) and first degree (failure resulting in serious injury or death)

Establishes specific criminal classifications: aggravated animal abuse is a class 4 felony, first degree animal abuse is a class 5 felony, second degree animal abuse is a class 6 felony, first degree animal neglect is a class 1 misdemeanor (class 6 felony if involving more than one animal), and second degree animal neglect is a class 2 misdemeanor

Adds new prohibitions on tethering or restraining dogs in dangerous conditions, including during temperatures above 100°F or below 32°F, for more than 10 consecutive hours in a 24-hour period, or without adequate water, shade, and shelter; a second or subsequent tethering violation is a class 5 felony, or class 4 felony if the dog dies

Requires mandatory sentence enhancement to the next higher class of offense if the violation is committed in the presence of a minor, involves 11 or more animals, or is a second or subsequent conviction; also mandates forfeiture of abused/neglected animals and restitution for veterinary care, transportation, housing, and rehabilitation costs

Expands the definition of "animal" to include fish and adds new exemptions for veterinary/animal research practices conducted under professional standards, humane euthanasia by licensed veterinarians or animal control agents, and pest control performed under existing state law