(A) Definitions. For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ABANDON. To leave an dog for any length of time without making effective provisions for its food, water or other care as is reasonably necessary for the dog’s health.
CRUELLY MISTREAT. To knowingly and intentionally kill, maim, disfigure, torture, beat, mutilate, burn, scald or otherwise set upon any dog.
CRUELLY NEGLECT. To fail to provide any dog in one’s care, whether as owner or custodian, with food, water or other care as is reasonably necessary for the dog’s health.
HUMANE KILLING. The destruction of an dog by a method which causes the dog a minimum of pain and suffering.
LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER. Any member of the State Patrol, any county or deputy sheriff, any member of the police force of any municipality or any other public official authorized by a municipality to enforce state or local dog control laws, rules, regulations or ordinances.
(1995 Code, § 6-123)
(B) Law enforcement officers; powers; immunity.
(1) Any law enforcement officer who has reason to believe that an dog has been abandoned or is being cruelly neglected or cruelly mistreated may seek a warrant authorizing entry upon private property to inspect, care for or impound the dog.
(2) Any law enforcement officer who has reason to believe that an dog has been abandoned or is being; cruelly neglected or mistreated may issue a citation to the owner as prescribed by law.
(3) Any law enforcement officer acting under this section shall not be liable for damage to property if such damage is not the result of the officer’s negligence.
(1995 Code, § 6-124)
(C) Neglect and cruelty; penalty. A person commits cruelty to dogs if he or she abandons, cruelly mistreats or cruelly neglects an dog.
(1995 Code, § 6-125)
Penalty, see § 91.99