For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ANIMAL. Any animal, other than a human being.
AT LARGE. Off the premises of its owner’s real property and not restrained by a competent person. Dogs which are on any street, alley or sidewalk or any other public place or upon any private property not owned by the owner of said dog, without being restrained by a competent person shall be deemed to be running AT LARGE.
CAT. All domesticated members of the genus Felis, male or female, four months of age or older.
COMPETENT PERSON. A human being that is capable of controlling and governing the animal or dog in question, and to whose commands the animal or dog is obedient.
DANGEROUS DOG. Any individual dog, when either unmuzzled, unleashed or unattended by its owner or custodian, that behaves in a manner that a reasonable person would believe poses a serious and unjustified imminent threat of serious physical injury or death to a person or a companion animal; or a dog that, without justification, bites a person and does not cause serious physical injury.
DOG. All members of the canine family.
LEASH. A cord, rope, strap or chain securely fastened to an animal by a collar or harness, and of sufficient strength to keep such animal under control.
OWNER. Any person having a right of property in a dog, cat or other animal, or who keeps or harbors a dog, cat or other animal, or who has in his or her care, or acts as custodian of, or knowingly permits a dog, cat or other animal to remain on or about any premises occupied by him or her.
VICIOUS DOG. A dog that, without justification, attacks a person and causes serious physical injury or death; or any individual dog that has been found to be a “dangerous dog” upon three separate occasions.
WILD ANIMAL. Any live monkey or ape, raccoon, skunk, fox, snake or other reptile, leopard, panther, tiger, lion, lynx or any other animal or any bird of prey which can normally be found in the wild state.
(Ord. 2011-17, passed 10-10-2011)