4-1-7. Investigation prior to charges of cruelty to animals in animal husbandry.

Prior to the filing of criminal charges for a violation under Code Section 16-12-4 with regard to conduct involving animal husbandry of food animals, a law enforcement officer shall consult with a licensed and accredited Category II veterinarian employed by the department or other agency of the State of Georgia whose primary practice and responsibilities are food animal veterinary medicine to confirm whether or not such conduct is in accordance with customary and standard practice. For purposes of this Code section, the term “food animal” means any animal that is raised for the production of an edible product intended for consumption by humans or is itself intended for consumption by humans. Such term shall include, but is not limited to, eggs, beef or dairy cattle, swine, sheep, goats, poultry, nonornamental fish, and any other animal designated by such veterinarian as a food animal.