For use in this chapter the following terms are defined as follows:
1. The term "dogs" shall mean animals of the canine species whether altered or not.
2. The term "at large" shall mean any licensed or unlicensed animal found off the premises of the owner and not under the control of a competent person, restrained within a motor vehicle, housed in a veterinary hospital or kennel, on a leash or "at heel" beside a competent person and obedient to that person's command.
3. The term "owner" shall mean any person owning, keeping, sheltering or harboring an animal.