§ 4-45. Impound, redemption, and disposition of animals

(a) Animals may be impounded and taken into the care and custody of the animal control agency in the following situations:

(1) When the animal is off the premises of its owner or keeper and creating a nuisance factor as defined above.

(2) If the animal is over six (6) months of age and has no current rabies tag or identification tag or plate (see above exemption).

(3) When a private citizen who has found the animal brings an animal to the animal shelter.

(4) When a dog has been declared potentially dangerous or dangerous pursuant to this chapter and state law, the dog has violated the restriction placed upon it.

(5) When any animal has been subjected to cruel treatment as defined by the provisions of this chapter, provided that removal is necessary for the immediate safety and well being of the animal.

(6) When the animal's owner or keeper is incapable to continue to care for it because of incarceration, severe illness, death, house fire, or other emergency circumstances and an agent for the owner cannot be readily located. These animals will be deemed impounded for safekeeping.

(7) When an animal has bitten a person, breaking or puncturing the skin and the owner and/or keeper is unable or unwilling to provide the ten-day quarantine requirements. If such dog is found running at large, the owner will be deemed unable to quarantine, and it shall be impounded.

(b) Forthwith, following the impoundment, the animal control agency shall notify the owner or keeper, if known, of its impoundment, using whatever reasonable means possible. If the animal's owner is unknown or cannot be located, the information and description of the animal shall be available at the animal shelter during normal business hours.

(c) All owners or keepers claiming impounded animals of any kind shall provide identification and shall sign a statement that verifies that they are the owner, keeper, or authorized agent of the owner. Names, street or road addresses, city and phone numbers will be required.

(Ord. of 3-15-10)