(A) (1) A notice of impoundment shall be given by the Administrator, his or her authorized representative or a law enforcement officer to the owner, if known, in person or sent by certified or registered mail for any animal impounded pursuant to this chapter.
(2) If notice is not able to be served in person or by registered or certified mail, the notice shall be given by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the county in which the owner’s last known address is located.
(B) The notice of impoundment shall include the following: listing of deficiencies noted; an accurate description of the animal or animals involved; the date on which the animal or animals were impounded; the signature of the investigator; and a statement that the violator may request an appeal of the impoundment pursuant to this chapter within seven business days after impoundment of the animal. Return of the animal to the owner may be denied or withheld until the owner shall have made full payment for all expenses incurred and for any accrued charges.
(C) If the impoundment is not appealed within seven business days of the impoundment, the animal is forfeited and the Administrator may lawfully and without liability provide for adoption of the animal or it may be humanely euthanized.
(D) The person who forfeited the animal or a person dwelling in the same household as the person who forfeited the animal may not adopt. No matter what the disposition of the animal in the appeal, the owner is subject to and responsible for any and all violations and expenses which may ensue.
(Prior Code, § 5-3-11) (Ord. 2009-04, passed 9-8-2009)