It shall be unlawful for any owner of any animal to keep such animal if it is known to have a contagious disease unless the animal is under the current treatment of a licensed veterinarian. If any animal impounded under the provisions of this chapter is found to be suffering from rabies or is inflicted with hydrophobia, mange or other infectious or dangerous disease, it shall not be released. The animal control officer may order that an incurably contagious or harmful animal be destroyed, subject to appeal to the mayor. An owner wishing to appeal the order of the animal control officer must file a written appeal with the city clerk within forty eight (48) hours of the order being served on the owner. The mayor or the mayor's designee shall hear the appeal within three (3) business days of a timely appeal. (Ord. 197, 1-8-2013)