Alabama § 34-29-132 - Euthanasia in Emergency Situation.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 34-29-132 — Euthanasia in Emergency Situation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 34-29-132. Euthanasia in Emergency Situation.
Whenever an emergency situation exists which requires the immediate euthanasia of an injured, diseased, or dangerous animal, a law enforcement officer, a veterinarian, or an agent or designee of a local animal control unit may humanely destroy the animal, as provided herein.
(1) Whenever any domestic animal is so injured or diseased as to appear useless and is in a suffering condition, and it reasonably appears to any officer that the animal is imminently near death and cannot be cured or rendered fit for service, and the officer has made a reasonable and concerted, but unsuccessful, effort to locate the owner, the owner’s agent, or a veterinarian, then the officer, acting in good faith and upon reasonable belief, may immediately destroy the animal by shooting the animal or injecting the animal with a barbiturate drug. If the officer locates the owner or the owner’s agent, the officer shall notify the owner or the owner’s agent of the animal’s location and condition. If the officer locates only a veterinarian, the officer shall destroy the animal only upon the advice and recommendation of the veterinarian.
(2) In the absence of negligence, wantonness, or willful conduct, no officer or veterinarian acting in good faith and with due care pursuant to this article may be held liable either criminally or civilly for euthanizing an animal, nor shall any civil or criminal liability attach to the employer of the officer or veterinarian.
(3) A court order shall not be necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 34-29-132
What does Code of Alabama § 34-29-132 cover?
Section 34-29-132 ("Euthanasia in Emergency Situation.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 34-29-132?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 34-29-132" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 34-29-132 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.