Here’s Who Is Responsible in Utah When a Pet Dies and Its Illegal to Take Too Long

When your beloved pet passes away in Utah, is it alright to bury them in their favorite spot in the yard? Surprisingly this has been addressed by state law whether it is a dog or a cat or even farm animals like horses and cows. 

The Owner of the Animal is Responsible for Burial of Animals 

You can bury your domestic animals on your own property. This is a good thing as there aren’t that many pet cemetery options. You may wonder why the law addressed animal burial, and it has to do with who is responsible for it. 

It appears it is the animals that aren’t getting interred that is the problem. When you realize and animal you are responsible for has passed, you need to bury it fairly quickly. The law says within a reasonable period of time.  

Utah Law Outlines Who Pays for Animal Burial 

The owner or other person responsible for the animal is liable for any burial costs. If this person cannot be found, then it falls to the city or county where it was discovered to handle any expenses. 

Get our free mobile app

Not a big deal if your Pomeranian needs a small corner of your yard, but a horse or a cow would be another story. This is a part of pet ownership that doesn’t seem like a big deal until you reach this stage.

Read More: Does Your Pet Have Worms? What Utahns Should Know

Many veterinary places offer cremation of smaller pets. If you are willing to pay the expense, this is the easiest way as you can spread the ashes under that favorite tree and not deal with picking up a shovel.