3.2-6563 - When animals to be euthanized; procedure. - Virginia Statutes

§ 3.2-6563. When animals to be euthanized; procedure.

Any humane investigator may lawfully cause to be euthanized any animal in hischarge or found abandoned or not properly cared for when, in the judgment ofthe humane investigator and two reputable citizens called to view the same inhis presence, and who shall give their written certificate, the animalappears to be injured, disabled or diseased, past recovery, or the injury,disease or disability is such that a reasonable owner would cause the animalto be euthanized.

Any humane investigator shall make every reasonable effort immediately tonotify the owner of the animal that the humane investigator intends for theanimal to be euthanized. The owner shall have a right to select one of thetwo reputable citizens called to view the animal and give written certificateof the animal's condition. In no event shall the determination as todisposition of the animal be delayed beyond 48 hours after such humaneinvestigator first decides the animal should be euthanized. In the event thatthe two citizens called to give such certificate are unable to agree, theyshall select a third reputable citizen and his decision shall be final.

(1984, c. 492, § 29-213.83; 1986, c. 362; 1987, c. 488, § 3.1-796.114; 1998,c. 817; 2008, c. 860.)