The refusal or failure of the owner of any such impounded animal to pay the fee and charges within 72 hours of notification shall be held to be an abandonment of the animal by the owner. In the event that any impounded dog or other animal is not redeemed by the owner, it may be disposed of by the Animal Control Officer or any law enforcement officer in a humane manner. A dog or other animal may be placed for adoption with a suitable person subject to requirements that it be spayed or neutered as required by M.C.A. § 7-23-4204. Any impounded dog or other animal suffering from an infectious disease shall not be released, but shall be put to death unless the Chief of Police shall otherwise order.
(Ord. 2005-01, passed 11-8-2004)