(a) A police officer or animal warden may impound any animal or fowl found in violation of Section 618.01. If the impounded dog or other animal is not wearing a valid registration tag, the dog or other animal shall forthwith be turned over to an officer charged by law with the custody and disposal of such animals. If the dog or other animal is wearing a valid registration tag or the identity of the owner or harborer of such dog or other animal is otherwise established, notice shall immediately be given to such owner or harborer that the dog has been impounded. Notice may be by telephone or by ordinary mail to the last known address of such owner or harborer. Every reasonable effort shall be made to contact a known owner prior to turning any animal over to an officer charged with custody or disposal of animals. The dog or other animal shall not be released except upon the payment of reasonable expenses for its taking and keeping. Any dog or other animal not redeemed within three days of the time it is seized or impounded may be sold or otherwise disposed of as provided by Ohio R.C. 955.16.
(b) A record of all animals impounded, the disposition of the same, the owner’s name and address, if known, and a statement of any costs or receipts involving such animal shall be kept.
(Ord. 04-19. Passed 5-3-04.)