(a) In the event that the City Animal Control Officer, an animal warden or law enforcement agent has probable cause to believe that a vicious or dangerous dog is being harbored or cared for in violation of this chapter, the Conneaut Animal Control Officer or his designee may petition a court of competent jurisdiction to order the seizure and impoundment of the vicious or dangerous dog pending trial.
(b) In the event that the Animal Control Officer or his designee has probable cause to believe that a vicious or dangerous dog is running at large, then the Animal Control Officer or his designee may seize and impound the dog without seeking prior court order.
(c) Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the Animal Control Officer or his designee from otherwise seizing any animal maintained in violation of this code which presents an immediate risk of physical harm to any person or property.
(d) Whoever violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree on a first offense and a misdemeanor of the first degree on any subsequent offense. In addition, any person found violating any provision of this section shall pay all expenses, including shelter, food, veterinary expenses for identification or certification of the breed of the animal or boarding and veterinary expenses necessitated by the seizure of any dog for the protection of the public, and such other expenses as may be required for the elimination of any such dog. Each day that such violation continues shall be considered a separate violation.
(Ord. 88-01. Passed 9-24-01.)