CA AB2278

Requires seizing organizations to provide care and treatment for seized animals until placement, return to owner, or euthanasia, with full costs constituting a lien on the animal.

Makes owners or keepers liable for all seizure and impoundment costs including preparation and posting of notices, with statements of charges presented at postseizure hearings or via mail/email within specified timeframes.

Requires express court approval before releasing animals seized pursuant to search warrants, and allows animals to be deemed abandoned if charges remain unpaid after 14 days of notice.

Extends animal forfeiture provisions in criminal cases to apply to any animal, not just cats and dogs, allowing seizing agencies or prosecutors to petition for forfeiture prior to final disposition of charges.

Clarifies that animal control officers may administer controlled substance tranquilizers when necessary to protect health and safety, subject to training, background checks, and veterinary authorization requirements.