Utah § 11-46-401 - Euthanasia of shelter animals -- Permitted methods.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 11-46-401 — Euthanasia of shelter animals -- Permitted methods., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 11-46-401. Euthanasia of shelter animals -- Permitted methods.

Effective 5/3/2023
11-46-401.  Euthanasia of shelter animals -- Permitted methods.
(1) Subject to Subsection (2), and except as provided in Subsection (3), on or after October 1, 2023, an animal shelter may euthanize an animal only by administering a drug that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved for the euthanasia of an animal, as that term is defined in this chapter.
(2) An animal shelter may euthanize an animal only by:
(a) intravenous injection by hypodermic needle;
(b) intraperitoneal injection by hypodermic needle; or
(c) if an animal is unconscious, intracardial injection by hypodermic needle.
(3)
(a) Subsection (1) does not apply to an animal control officer who, subject to Subsection (3)(b), euthanizes an animal in an emergency situation outside of an animal shelter's facility or place of business.
(b) If an animal control officer euthanizes an animal in an emergency situation, the officer shall use, in the officer's judgment, the most humane method available to the officer.


Enacted by Chapter 360, 2023 General Session

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 11-46-401

What does Utah Code § 11-46-401 cover?

Section 11-46-401 ("Euthanasia of shelter animals -- Permitted methods.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. 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 Utah § 11-46-401?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 11-46-401" (Utah). 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 Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 11-46-401 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah 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 Utah.