If any strays or trespassing animals sold under the provisions of this chapter shall, within a period of six (6) months immediately ensuing after the date of the sale thereof, be claimed and proved to be the property of any person, it shall be the duty of the treasurer at the expiration of such time to pay the money received for such animals to the owner thereof less the amount of damages and the expense of taking, keeping and selling the same; but in the event that the animals are not claimed as aforesaid, then such money shall become the property of the city; provided, that in case there is a contest between two (2) or more persons claiming to be the owners of such animals, the treasurer shall pay residue to the party who shall establish by action his right to the same. (1986 Code)