Pennsylvania § 8331.1 - Veterinary good Samaritan civil immunity.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 8331.1 — Veterinary good Samaritan civil immunity., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8331.1. Veterinary good Samaritan civil immunity.
(a) General rule.--Any individual licensed to practice veterinary medicine who, in good faith, renders emergency care to any animal which such individual has discovered at the scene of an accident or emergency situation or which has immediately prior to the rendering of such care been brought to such individual's attention at or from the scene of any accident or emergency situation shall not be liable for any civil damages as a result of any acts or omissions by such person in rendering the emergency care, except any acts or omissions intentionally designed to harm, or any grossly negligent acts or omissions which result in harm to the animal.
(b) Definition.--As used in this section, "good faith" shall include, but is not limited to, a reasonable opinion that the immediacy of the situation is such that the rendering of care should not be postponed until the animal is hospitalized.
(c) Exception.--This section shall not apply where the owner of the animal is in attendance and can be consulted as to the proposed action by the veterinarian.
(Dec. 13, 1982, P.L.1141, No.260, eff. imd.)
1982 Amendment. Act 260 added section 8331.1.
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 8331.1
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 8331.1 cover?
Section 8331.1 ("Veterinary good Samaritan civil immunity.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania § 8331.1?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 8331.1" (Pennsylvania). 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 Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 8331.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.