Animals: euthanasia.

Existing law prohibits a person from killing an animal by using carbon monoxide gas or intracardiac injection of a euthanasia agent on a conscious animal, except as specified. With respect to the killing of a dog or cat, existing law prohibits a person from using a high-altitude decompression chamber or nitrogen gas. Under existing law, a violation of these provisions is a misdemeanor. This bill would, with respect to the killing of a dog or cat, additionally prohibit a person from using carbon dioxide gas. By expanding the scope of an existing crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.