For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
BITE.
To seize and cut with the teeth.
CONFINEMENT STRUCTURE.
A securely locked pen, kennel, structure or fence capable of containing a dangerous or vicious dog and shall be designed, constructed and maintained to prevent the animal's escape and prevent the entry of children. Such pen, kennel, structure or fence must have secure sides and any gaps or spaces present in the structure must not allow the dog to escape or place its head through such gap or space. All structures used to confine a dangerous or vicious dog must be securely locked when such an animal is within the structure. Any fence used to contain a dangerous or vicious dog must have a minimum height of six feet. All structures erected to house a dangerous or vicious dog must comply with all zoning and building regulations of the village. All structures must be adequately lighted, ventilated and kept in a clean and sanitary condition.
DANGEROUS DOG.
Any individual dog which when either unmuzzled, unleashed, or unattended by its owner or keeper:
(1) Approaches any person in a vicious or terrorizing manner with an apparent attitude of attack upon a street, sidewalk, or any public grounds or place; or
(2) Has been used primarily or in part for the purpose of dogfighting or is a dog trained for dogfighting.
This definition shall not apply to dogs utilized by law enforcement officers in the performance of their duties.
FIGHT.
A prearranged conflict between two or more animals, but does not include a conflict that is accidental.
K-9 PATROL DOG OR POLICE DOG.
A professionally trained dog used by law enforcement officers for law enforcement purposes and activities.
LEASH.
A cord, chain, rope, strap or other physical restraint having a tensile strength of not less than 300 pounds.
MUZZLE.
A device constructed of strong, soft material or a metal muzzle. The
MUZZLE
must be made in a manner which will not cause injury to the dog or interfere with its vision or respiration, but must prevent it from biting any person or animal.
NIP.
To pinch or squeeze with the teeth with no breaking of skin or tissue.
RUNNING AT LARGE.
The failure to confine a dangerous dog in accordance with § 91.82.
VICIOUS DOG.
(1) Any individual dog that when unprovoked inflicts bites or attacks a human being or other animal either on public or private property.
(2) Any individual dog with a known propensity, tendency or disposition to attack without provocation, to cause injury or to otherwise endanger the safety of human beings or domestic animals.
(3) Any individual dog that has a trait or characteristic and a generally known reputation for viciousness, dangerousness or unprovoked attacks upon human beings or other animals, unless handled in a particular manner or with special equipment.
(4) Any individual dog which has been found to be a "dangerous dog" upon three separate occasions.
(Ord. 2010-003, passed 5-5-10)