(A) Animals found in cruel, abusive, neglectful situations or abandoned, as defined in the section above, may be promptly impounded if no immediate contact with a responsible person can be made; provided however, that Marion Animal Care and Control Officer attempt to leave written notice on the door of the residence telling the owner of the animal and the reason for impoundment.
(B) Animals so removed will be impounded and held at Marion Animal Care and Control Service until such time the violator is in compliance with this chapter; provided, however, that in no event shall this period exceed three days, at which time the animal shall become the property of Marion Animal Care and Control Service, unless an extension is necessary for the Animal Control Officer to have ample time to prepare a court case if prosecution is warranted.
(C) In the case of animals impounded for quarantine at Marion Animal Care and Control Service, the animal will become property of Marion Animal Care and Control Service if not claimed by closing time of the Service on the eleventh day of quarantine.
(D) Animals impounded for reasons beyond the control of the owner, such as, but not limited to, house fire, death of the owner or similar situation, will be held for ten days during which time a reasonable effort will be made to contact the owner and/or their representative. After the tenth day of impoundment, the animal will become the property of Marion Animal Care and Control Service.
(E) An animal awaiting disposition by the court shall remain in the custody of Marion Animal Care and Control Service, unless such disposition is made, or placed in a foster home until legal arrangements have been completed.
(F) Animals so removed may be transported to a licensed veterinarian for examination and/or treatment. If, in the opinion of the veterinarian, the animal must be destroyed, euthanasia will be performed immediately. Cost of treatment, euthanasia and/or care shall be the responsibility of the owner/agent.
(Ord. 7-2014, passed 4-1-2014)