It is a tragedy when a beloved pet dies. In the first moments, all you know is to cry and mourn your passed friend. But after a while, you realize that the deceased body cannot lie on your property forever. So what happens now? What do you do with the carcass of the animal? What is and isn't legal when it comes to the disposal of dead animals?

Let's explore our options and find out.

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In the state of Iowa, can I bury my pet in my yard?

Yes, you can bury your pet in your yard, but the burial must be no greater than 6 feet deep with a minimum of 30 inches of soil cover. Burial must be in well-drained soils and be at least 2 feet above the highest groundwater elevation.

Can I leave the body in a public place?

NO! It is unlawful for any person to dispose of or throw away any carcass, dead animal, animal blood, or parts of any carcass upon any street, alley, or public place or upon any lot within the City.

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How long do I have to dispose of the carcass?

Iowa law requires that every person who cares for or owns an animal has a duty to dispose of the animal’s carcass within 24 hours of its death.

What are the proper ways to dispose of the deceased animal?

The disposal can be by composting, cooking, burying, burning, or by disposing of it to a person licensed for disposal of animals.

What are the consequences if I do not dispose of a pet's body properly?

Failure to comply can result in a criminal simple misdemeanor or a civil penalty of between $100 and $1,000. The State cannot bring a criminal action if it pursues civil penalties.

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Is it illegal to throw a deceased pet in the garbage?

Although it is not illegal, it is highly frowned upon. Individual dead animals weighing less than 15 pounds may be disposed of in the general waste stream. Small dead animals must be in sealed waste containers or bags prior to arriving at the landfill. The sealed container or bag must be of sufficient strength to resist breakage under normal transportation and unloading activities. If the carcasses are from animals that have died as a result of a disease that is transferable to humans, advanced notice and approval are required.

Raccoon Looking out of a Trashcan
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Dead animal carcasses weighing more than 15 pounds or large quantities of animal carcasses require burial by the landfill. According to the Scott County Landfill/Waste Commission in Davenport, Iowa, You can bring the dead animal to the landfill. They ask that you call first so they can dig a space. The charge is $60 for the burial of the animal.

Even though it is not illegal in Iowa to dispose of a dead pet in the trash can, it is frowned upon and is not considered the best option.

What should I do?

The best thing to do when a pet dies is to call the veterinarian's office. A vet's office will take your pet's body and either dispose of it for you or store it for you before you have a cremation or burial.

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It is hard losing a furry friend, but it is good to know what your next steps are when the time comes.

Illegal Pets In The Quad Cities

Every state has laws when it comes to owning pets. No matter how badly you want these pets, you could see some fines for having them.

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