Iowa § 162.19 - 162.19 Abandoned animals destroyed.
Full text of Iowa Iowa Code § 162.19 — 162.19 Abandoned animals destroyed., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 162.19. 162.19 Abandoned animals destroyed.
1. Whenever any animal is left with a veterinarian, boarding kennel or commercial kennel pursuant to a written agreement and the owner does not claim the animal by the agreed date, the animal shall be deemed abandoned, and a notice of abandonment and its consequences shall be sent within seven days by certified mail to the last known address of the owner. For fourteen days after mailing of the notice the owner shall have the right to reclaim the animal upon payment of all reasonable charges, and after the fourteen days the owner shall be deemed to have waived all rights to the abandoned animal. If despite diligent effort an owner cannot be found for the abandoned animal within another seven days, the veterinarian, boarding kennel, or commercial kennel may humanely destroy the abandoned animal. 2. Each veterinarian, boarding kennel or commercial kennel shall warn its patrons of the provisions of this section by a conspicuously posted notice or by conspicuous type in a written receipt. [C77, 79, 81, §162.19] 2021 Acts, ch 76, §150 Thu Dec 11 18:40:58 2025 Iowa Code 2026, Section 162.19 (19, 0)
Source: official Iowa text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa § 162.19
What does Iowa Code § 162.19 cover?
Section 162.19 ("162.19 Abandoned animals destroyed.") is part of the Iowa Code, the codified statutory law of Iowa. 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 Iowa § 162.19?
A common citation format is "Iowa Code § 162.19" (Iowa). 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 Iowa law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Iowa official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Iowa attorney.
How does Iowa § 162.19 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Iowa 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 Iowa.