Realtors® and Abandoned Animals

I wrote some time ago about animals left behind when pet owners had to leave their homes. Now the state government has stepped in with a new law.
As of January 1, 2009, all persons that discover an abandoned animal in or near a vacated or foreclosed real property must immediately contact animal control for the purpose of retrieval and care.
The law provides that:
• Any person or private entity with whom a live animal is deposited shall immediately notify animal control officials for the purpose of retrieving the animal.
• The person in possession of the abandoned animal is subject to all local ordinances and state laws that govern the proper care and treatment of those animals.
• The person or private entity, or the successor property owner that notifies animal control officials to retrieve the animal shall not be considered the keeper of the animal.
This law impacts banks with foreclosed properties and their real estate agents.
The City of Sunnyvale recommends using common sense when encountering a stray animal. If you don't feel it is safe (for you and/or the animal) to approach – then DON'T. Call the local Animal Control Unit with a description of the animal (size, color, breed, sex, etc.) and the location and/or direction of travel of the animal so they can locate and contain the animal as soon as possible.
If you come across a stray or abandoned animal in a vacant home please contact the following animal control offices in their respective jurisdictions.

THE PENINSULA HUMANE SOCIETY & SPCA
12 Airport Boulevard, San Mateo, CA 94401 - (650) 340-8200

PALO ALTO ANIMAL SERVICES
3281 East Bayshore Road, Palo Alto - (650) 496-5971

SAN JOSE ANIMAL CARE CENTER
2750 Monterey Road, San Jose - (408) 578-7297

SANTA CLARA COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER
12370 Murphy Avenue, San Martin - (408) 683-4186

SILICON VALLEY ANIMAL CONTROL AUTHORITY
3370 Thomas Road, Santa Clara - (408) 764-0344