(a) Vicious or dangerous animals and reptiles of any species whatsoever are hereby declared to be a public nuisance and menace to the public safety, and it shall be unlawful for any person to own, keep or harbor any animal or reptile of any species, whatsoever known by him, or which, in the exercise of reasonable diligence he should know, to be vicious, dangerous or in the habit of biting or attacking persons.
(b) In addition to any penalty which may be adjudged against any person for a violation of this section, such person shall be compelled to dispose of or to destroy any such animal.