(A) Some but not all of the purposes of this chapter is to define and prohibit the abuse of animals; to regulate, restrict the production or emission of noises or other sounds that tend to annoy, disturb or frighten citizens of the town; to regulate, restrict or prohibit the keeping, running or going at large of any domestic animals, including dogs and cats; to regulate, restrict or prohibit the possession or harboring within the town wild animals dangerous to person or offensive to the senses; to summarily remove, abate, or remedy everything within the town limits, or within 1 mile thereof, that is dangerous or prejudicial to the public health; to regulate and license certain occupations, businesses or trades; and to levy an annual license tax on the privilege of keeping dogs within the town.
(B) It is expressly recognized that the owners of animals are responsible for the acts of their animals. The owner of any animal which commits a nuisance upon the property of another person or who damages another person's property or person, is fully responsible and accountable for these acts. The presence of any stray animal at large, as hereinafter defined, within the corporate limits of the town is hereby declared to be a public nuisance. Such animals are a threat to the health of the community and to the safety of persons and property alike. Moreover, it is hereby declared in the public interest that such owners provide their animals with humane shelter from heat, cold, rain, wind and snow, and shall provide food and water adequate to keep their animals in good health and comfort. All animals should be given opportunity for vigorous daily exercises and provided by their owners with veterinary care when needed to prevent suffering. It is contrary to the public policy expressed herein for any person to poison or maim any animal or to abandon same. Unwanted animals should be given to the animal control officer or police officer to be sold or otherwise disposed of in a humane manner.
(Ord. 121, passed 11-11-1993)