(A) For purposes of this chapter, CRUELTY means any act prohibited by this section. No person shall cause infliction of pain, any form of bodily injury, or death to an animal by:
(1) Striking, beating, dropping, throwing, kicking, dragging, choking, or by the use of an object or weapon;
(2) Means of caustic, flammable, chemical, boiling, or heated substances; causing suffering, any form of bodily injury, or death by suffocation or drowning;
(3) Failing to provide adequate food, water, and shelter; and/or
(4) Failing to detect the need for, or withholding, veterinary care, including care and maintenance of skin and coat, and/or creating, or allowing, unhealthy living conditions, whether by intentional or by severe omission.
(B) No person shall engage, participate, or be present in any acts or actions as defined as cruelty or neglect in this chapter. No person shall cruelly treat or torment and/or neglect any animal.
(C) (1) In the event there is a reasonable cause to suspect that an animal is being a victim of cruelty or neglect, custody of such animal may be taken by an animal control officer and impounded at the animal shelter.
(2) If claimed by its owner within the time limit, as defined in this chapter, the animal may be held as evidence and confined in a humane manner. Any owner or caretaker shall be responsible for all fees, as defined in this chapter.
(D) For the purpose of this section, CRUELTY and/or NEGLECT of an animal shall also be defined as a failure by a person to adhere to the remedies and requisites ordered by an animal control officer to comply with the requirements and provisions of any sections of this chapter.
(Ord. 2015-14, passed 12-1-2015) Penalty, see § 93.999