SECTION 775:10-8-16. Standards for euthanasia of animals in the custody of a law enforcement agency, animal control agency or animal shelter.

  In accordance with Sections 501 et seq. of Title 4 of the Oklahoma Statues, the euthanasia of animals held by or in the custody of a law enforcement agency, animal control agency or animal shelter shall comply with the standards set forth in this chapter.

(1)   Euthanasia of animals shall be performed by one of the following methods:

(A)   administration of denatured sodium pentobarbital; or

(B)   the use of a carbon monoxide chamber, using commercially compressed cylinder gas, provided that kittens and puppies under the age of sixteen (16) weeks shall not be euthanized with carbon monoxide but with injections of denatured sodium pentobarbital or other drugs not prohibited by statute approved for euthanasia by the Board.

(2)   The method of euthanasia shall be as painless as possible to the animal as determined by the best available medical and scientific knowledge and technology.

(3)   The animal shall be kept as free from anxiety and fear as possible.

(4)   Death shall be confirmed by the cessation of all vital signs.

(5)   Denatured sodium pentobarbital approved for euthanasia of animals by the Board shall be administered only by a licensed veterinarian, a certified animal euthanasia technician, or a person trained for this purpose and under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

(6)   No controlled dangerous substances or other drugs approved by the Board for euthanasia of animals shall be used to euthanize an animal after the expiration date printed on the primary commercial container by the manufacturer.

[Source: Added at 18 Ok Reg 1379, eff 5-11-01; Amended at 18 Ok Reg 3371, eff 5-21-01 (emergency); Amended at 19 Ok Reg 1872, eff 7-1-02; Amended at 27 Ok Reg 1052, eff 7-1-10]