A. Authority To Impound: Any animal found in violation of the provisions of this chapter may be impounded by the City.
B. Notice Of Impoundment: Not later than two (2) calendar days after the impoundment of any animal, the owner, if known, shall be notified, of such impoundment.
C. Redemption Of Impounded Animals:
1. The owner of any animal impounded pursuant to this chapter may reclaim such animal upon proof of current license and rabies inoculation, payment of the redemption fee and payment of all costs and charges incurred by the City or the agency authorized by the City to impound such animal, including costs of maintenance of said animal.
2. If an animal four (4) months of age or older and unlicensed is impounded, the person to whom the animal is released shall apply for a license for such animal and shall be required to first show proof of current rabies vaccination or obtain a rabies vaccination receipt in order to obtain the release of the animal. (Ord. 18-4767, 9-4-2018)
3. All dogs, cats, and ferrets impounded by the animal shelter which do not have traceable identification shall have a microchip identification implanted permanently into the animal prior to redemption. (Ord. 19-4782, 3-12-2019)
D. Period Of Impoundment; Notice: The City shall keep all animals impounded pursuant to this chapter for a period of seven (7) calendar days after the owner has been notified, in writing, of possible disposition, which notice shall be given to the animal owner by personal delivery, electronic mail, or by U.S. mail. U.S. mail is deemed completed four (4) days after the notice is deposited in the mail and postmarked for delivery. Electronic mail is deemed completed twenty four (24) hours after it is sent. After such time period has expired and the owner has failed to claim and redeem any such impounded animal, such animal shall become the property of the City. This provision does not apply to stray animals for which the owner is unknown.
E. Written Record: The City personnel or veterinarian authorized to impound animals, upon receiving any animal pursuant to this chapter, shall make a written record of receiving such animal. (Ord. 18-4767, 9-4-2018)