The purpose of this chapter is to provide protection for the people of Lee County, to ensure their health, safety, and welfare, and to provide harmonious relationships between people and animals by:
A. Protecting the resident of Lee County from rabies by implementing preventative and control measures as may be deemed necessary;
B. Providing security to residents from annoyance, intimidation, and injury from dogs and other animals;
C. Protecting animals from improper use, abuse, neglect, inhumane treatment, and health hazards;
D. Encouraging responsible pet ownership;
E. Educating the public on rabies and other related issues;
F. Providing the assessment of penalties for violations and for the enforcement and administration of 510 ILCS 5/1 (Illinois Animal Control Act), 510 ILCS 70/3 (Humane Care for Animals Act), and this Ordinance. (Ord. Ord. 07-22-001, 7-21-2022)