§ 33.55 SHOTS TO DESTROY ANIMALS.
   (A)   The killing of animals is justified:
      (1)   For self-defense;
      (2)   To prevent substantial harm to the officer or another; or
      (3)   When the animal is so badly injured that humanity requires its relief from further suffering.
   (B)   A seriously wounded or injured animal may be destroyed only after all attempts have been made to request assistance from the agency (humane society, animal control, game warden and the like) responsible for the disposal of animals. The destruction of vicious animals should be guided by the same rules set forth for self-defense and the defense and safety of others.
(`95 Code, § 23.09(11))