For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER. The person appointed to exercise the powers and responsibilities herein prescribed and otherwise allowed by statute to a county dog warden; the person shall have the powers of a county dog warden in addition to other powers set out in this chapter.
ANIMAL SHELTER. Any premises designated by Dare County for the purpose of impounding and caring for cats and dogs found running at large or otherwise subject to impoundment in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
AT LARGE. Any animal off the property of his or her owner and not under the control of a competent person by means of a leash or chain and collar, or other like device.
EXPOSED TO RABIES. An animal which has been bitten by or been exposed to any animal known or suspected to have been infected with rabies.
IDENTIFICATION TAG. The metallic or other tag or identification device issued by the Dare County Animal Control Department for attachment to the collar or harness of a dog.
KENNEL; DEALER; BREEDER; PET SHOP. Any person engaged in buying, selling, breeding or boarding pet animals.
NEUTERED MALE. Any male animal which has been operated upon to prevent reproduction.
OWNER. Any person owning, keeping, having charge of, sheltering, feeding, harboring or taking care of any animal.
RESTRAINT. Controlled by means of a chain, leash or other like device, on or within a vehicle being driven or parked, or within a secure enclosure, or within the property limits of its owner or keeper.
SPAYED FEMALE. Any female animal which has been operated upon to prevent conception.
STRAY DOG. Any dog within the town wandering at large or lost or any dog within the town whose owner fails to pay for and procure a dog tag and fails to have the dog vaccinated against rabies by a veterinarian.
VICIOUS ANIMAL. Any animal that has made an unprovoked attack on a human by biting or in any manner causing abrasions or cuts of the skin; or, one which habitually or repeatedly attacks other pets.
(Ord. 04-18, passed 7-7-2004)