If the animal under observation shows any signs which might be an indication of an infection with rabies the animal shall be examined by a licensed veterinarian. If the animal is diagnosed as being rabid or suspected by the veterinarian as being rabid, it shall be allowed to die and shall not be killed. Upon the death of the animal the dog officer shall immediately send the head of the animal, under suitable refrigeration, to the state Department of Public Health laboratory in Albuquerque for pathological examination and shall notify the state health department and the city clerk of the diagnosis made of the suspected animal. (Prior code § 10-3-21)