MS HB1298

Amends dog fighting laws to allow law enforcement to seize dogs and equipment used in dog fighting violations, with the court appointing an animal control agency, veterinarian, or other suitable custodian as temporary custodian pending final disposition.

Allows immediate humane euthanasia of seized dogs upon written certification by a licensed veterinarian or animal welfare officer that the dog is unlikely to survive or should be euthanized due to physical condition.

Requires owners of seized animals to post a renewable bond or security every 30 days to cover the animal's care costs, with court review of the bond amount at owner request with at least 5 business days' notice.

Returns excess bond funds to the owner upon final disposition of the criminal matter, and allows the temporary custodian to draw actual care costs from the posted bond or security.

Adds dog fighting violations under Section 97-41-19 as grounds for animal seizure under Section 97-41-2 and clarifies that immediate euthanasia of severely injured or suffering animals does not require court order.