For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ANIMAL. Any living, nonhuman vertebrate creature.
AT LARGE. An animal that is off the premises of the owner, and not under restraint by its owner.
DANGEROUS ANIMAL. Any animal which:
(1) Has seriously injured a human, domestic animal or farm animal;
(2) Has without provocation attacked, bitten, pursued or attempted to attack, bite or pursue a human, whether on or off the property of its owner or the owner’s agent;
(3) Has attacked or bitten a domestic animal, or farm animal while on or off the property of its owner or the owner’s agent;
(4) Has been found to be at large and has been documented to be at large by an animal control officer on three or more separate occasions; or
(5) Because of its training or behavior, is capable of inflicting physical harm or death to humans, as determined by the Town Police Department.
HARBOR. The permitting of an animal to remain, to be lodged or to be fed within one’s home, store, enclosure, yard or place of business or any premises on which such person resides or controls. An animal shall be presumed HARBORED if it is fed or sheltered for three consecutive days or more.
IMPOUND. The taking into custody of an animal by any police officer, animal control officer or any authorized representative of the town.
OWNER. The owner of an animal, including a person who possesses, keeps or harbors an animal.
SECURE ENCLOSURE or SECURELY ENCLOSED. Any enclosed building or lighted, ventilated and sanitary outdoor pen that:
(1) Is roofed or that has sides at least four feet tall;
(2) Is constructed in such a manner that the type of animal contained within the pen cannot reasonably be expected to escape; and
(3) Does not obstruct access to metering devices provided to the public.
UNDER RESTRAINT. The animal is secured by a leash not exceeding six feet in length, and under the control of a person physically capable of restraining the animal and obedient to that person’s commands.
(Ord. 242-12, passed - -2012)