§ 6-56. Seizure and impoundment of unvaccinated dogs or dogs running at large; reclaiming; disposal.

(a)

It shall be the duty of the health officer and/or his appointed representative to seize and impound any dog not vaccinated and/or any dog "running at large" as that term is defined in this [article]. Any dog so seized and impounded shall be held for a period of at least three (3) days during which time the owner may claim the dog by paying an impounding fee [as provided in this article]. If said dog has not been legally vaccinated, an additional fee will be charged to cover the cost of vaccination.

(b)

If such animal is not claimed and the requirements of this [article] are not complied with by the owner, or, after three (3) days by some other person wishing to redeem the dog, it shall be the duty of the health officer or his representative to dispose of said animal in a humane manner.

(c)

If the dog is wearing a collar bearing a tag showing the name and address of owner, it shall be impounded and the citizen or officer so seizing and impounding the dog [shall immediately notify the owner of the dog], at the address disclosed by the tag on the dog's collar, that the dog has been seized and impounded by him, and unless the owner or keeper of the dog, within seven (7) days from the receipt of the notice, claims the dog, then said animal may be disposed of in a humane manner.

(d)

If a mortally injured animal is picked up and unidentifiable, said animal may be destroyed immediately in a humane manner. The head of said animal must be submitted to the state laboratory for examination for rabies.

(Ord. No. 627, § 8, 2-6-68)