(a) In addition to the duties enumerated herein, the Animal Warden shall receive and investigate complaints about "dangerous" and "vicious" animals defined in Chapter 518. In addition to criteria set forth in the definition section therein, the Animal Warden may, in making a determination as to whether an animal is dangerous or vicious, consider the following:
(1) Any previous history of the animal attacking, biting or injuring human beings or domestic animals. "Bite" means penetration of the skin by the teeth of such animal.
(2) The nature and extent of all injuries inflicted and the number of victims involved in any attack by the animal.
(3) The place where the bite, attack or injury occurred.
(4) The presence or absence of any provocation for the bite, attack or injury.
(5) The extent to which clothing or other property was damaged or destroyed.
(6) Whether or not the animal exhibits any characteristic of being trained for fighting or attack, or other evidence to show such training or fighting.
(7) Whether or not the animal exhibits characteristics of aggression or unpredictable temperament or behavior in the presence of human beings or domestic animals.
(8) The manner in which the animal has been trained, handled and maintained by its owner or custodian.
(9) Any other relevant evidence brought to the attention of the Animal Warden concerning the animal.
(10) Any other relevant evidence brought to the attention of the Animal Warden regarding the ability of the owner or custodian to protect the public safety if the animal is permitted to remain in the City.
(b) Where the Animal Warden, upon complaint and investigation, finds an animal dangerous or vicious, the Animal Warden, when accompanied by a law enforcement officer, shall cite the owner, keeper or harborer of such animal to court for violation of Chapter 518 of the City's Codified Ordinances.
(Ord. 2011-8. Passed 2-14-11.)