For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ANIMALS. Any dog or cat, including both male and female.
HARBOR. To act as custodian of an animal, whether by feeding or affording shelter.
OWNER. Any person, firm or corporation owning, keeping or harboring an animal. For the purpose of this subchapter, the head of a household shall be deemed the OWNER in respect to any animal or animals owned, kept or harbored by any person residing in the household and kept on the premises.
PUBLIC NUISANCE ANIMAL. Any animal or group of animals which:
(1) Is repeatedly found at large;
(2) Damages any property, either public or private, of anyone other than its owner;
(3) Is vicious;
(4) Causes fouling of the air by odors;
(5) Causes unsanitary conditions of enclosures or surroundings;
(6) By virtue of number or type is offensive or dangerous to the public health, safety or welfare;
(7) Excessively makes disturbing noises such as barking, howling and whining;
(8) Is diseased and dangerous to the public health; and
(9) Defecates on any property, either public or private, other than the property of the owner or person harboring the animal.
RUNNING AT LARGE. Any animal off the premises of his or her owner and not under sufficient physical restraint, such as a leash, cage or similar effective device to allow the animal to be controlled.
STRAY. Any animal running at large which does not have a collar, harness or halter upon which is attached a tag identifying the name and address of the owner.
VICIOUS ANIMALS. Any animal which has bitten, scratched or otherwise attacked one or more persons without provocation, or an animal in which a propensity to attack humans exist, or which propensity is known or reasonably should be known to the owner.
(Ord. eff. 10-10-2005)