A. Duties: The animal control officer shall:
1. Enforce the provisions of this chapter.
2. Issue citations for the violations of the provisions of this chapter.
3. Recommend the adoption of administrative rules and regulations for the control of dangerous dogs.
B. Interference With Officer: No person shall interfere with, lie to, hinder or molest any animal control officer or police officer engaged in the lawful performance of any animal control function described in this chapter.
C. Release Of Animals In Trap Or Custody: No person shall seek to release any animal in a trap or in the custody of the animal control officer or police officer.
D. Access To Premises To Examine Conditions: The animal control officer shall request access to any premises where any animal is kept in a reportedly cruel or inhumane manner to examine such animal and the conditions in which the animal is kept. The animal control officer may seek to obtain a warrant authorizing access to premises or seizure of the animal.
E. Removal Of Animal From Vehicle, Enclosed Space: The animal control officer shall use whatever force is reasonable and necessary to remove any animal from a vehicle or other enclosed space whenever it appears that the animal's life or health is endangered by extreme temperatures or lack of ventilation within the vehicle or other enclosed space. Furthermore, maintaining an animal in such conditions is declared to be an imminent threat to the public health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Eloy. No peace officer or animal control officer shall be liable for damages to property caused by the use of reasonable force to remove an animal from such a vehicle or other enclosed space under such circumstance. (Ord. 05-590, 5-23-2005)