(a) Procedure for search and seizure. In accordance with the provisions of this article, the animal control officer is authorized and empowered to enter upon the exterior area of private premises (excepting entry into the private areas of buildings, unless in possession of a search warrant) for the purpose of inspecting those premises to determine if the owners of dogs, cats or animals harbored, kept or possessed on the premises have complied with the provisions of this article. For cruelty to animals, ill treatment of animals, the keeping of un-permitted wild or exotic animals, and the seizure of dangerous animals (unless authorized pursuant to § 4-16), the animal control officer shall initiate the procedure for search warrant and seizure in accordance with state law. The animal control officer may pursue any violations of this article which he ascertains as a result of said search or seizure.
(b) Interference with officer prohibited. No person shall interfere with, hinder or molest the duly authorized animal control officer of the county in the performance of his duty, or any such agents, or seek to release animals in the custody of the duly authorized animal control officer of the county or any agent of the county, except as provided in this article.
(c) Enforcement actions against violations.
(1) At his discretion, an animal control officer may issue a warning citation, or a summons ordinance for a violation of this article, or impound any dog or cat running at large.
(2) In the case of an attack or cruelty to an animal, an animal control officer may take seizure action as specified in this article.
(1976 Code, § 4-20) (Ord. 2130, § 8, passed 6-5-1990; Ord. 4099, § 3, passed 4-3-2007)