An animal in the apparent ownership or control of a person should only come on to a private property with the occupier's permission. If permission is not given, or is given and withdrawn, the animal's presence may be a trespass and can be dealt with in the same way as trespass of an object - see Trespassers.

A person who owns or controls an animal is responsible for any damage caused if reasonable care is not taken to control the animal.

Animal includes all beasts, birds, reptiles, fish and insects.

Local councils have the power to make by-laws controlling the keeping of animals, and these vary from council to council. There are also provisions relating to the control and management of dogs and cats in the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 (SA).