For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ABANDONMENT. A situation in which an owner of a domestic animal deserts, forsakes or gives up an animal, without securing another owner or without providing for that animal the necessities of life.
ANIMAL. One or more domestic animals of any kind, and one or more domestic fowls of any species.
AT LARGE. An animal off the property of its owner or other consenting landowner, and not under restraint.
CARNIVORE. Any animal able to kill and eat the meat from another animal.
NUISANCE. An animal that disturbs the rights of, threatens the safety of, or damages a member of the general public, or interferes with the ordinary use and enjoyment of their property.
OWNER. Any person who:
(1) Has a right of property in an animal;
(2) Keeps or harbors an animal, or who has it in his or her care or acts as its custodian; or
(3) Permits an animal to remain on or about any premises he or she occupies.
VICIOUS ANIMAL. Any animal evidencing characteristics usually associated with an animal abnormally inclined to attack, or to attempt to attack, other animals or persons, without provocation by such other animal or person.
(Ord. 2004-11, passed 6-21-04; Am. Ord. 2009-03, passed 4-13-09)