Tex. Health & Safety Code § 821.052 (2026)

Sec. 821.052. METHODS OF EUTHANASIA. (a) A person may euthanize a dog or cat in the custody of an animal shelter only by administering sodium pentobarbital.

(b) A person may euthanize all other animals in the custody of an animal shelter, including birds and reptiles, only in accordance with the applicable methods, recommendations, and procedures set forth in the edition of the American Veterinary Medical Association Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals that is approved by the executive commissioner.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 30, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 23 (S.B. 360), Sec. 2, eff. May 10, 2013.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219), Sec. 3.1594, eff. April 2, 2015.