(A) Wild animals shall be considered dangerous.
(B) Wild dogs shall be considered dangerous and impounded and euthanized.
(C) Guard dogs shall be deemed dangerous dogs.
(1) A veterinarian shall implant guard dogs with a microchip identifying their owner.
(2) Guard dogs shall be kept within a secure building or behind a six foot fence, both of which shall have signs on all sides and at least every 40 linear feet stating "No Admittance-Dangerous Dog." In addition, signs shall also be posted on all entrance doors and all gates and yard entrances.
(3) Owners shall exercise extreme caution in their control of guard dogs but shall not be liable if the guard dog bites or harms an adult trespasser, provided the owner has complied with the provisions of division (C)(2) above.
(4) If a guard dog escapes from its owner's control, the owner shall immediately report the escape to the police. The owner shall assist the police in securing its return.
(5) Guard dogs shall not be allowed outside the required enclosure unless they are securely muzzled and restrained by their owner on a three foot, 300 pound test leash.
(D) A dog may be found to be vicious when, because of its aggressive nature, training or characteristic behavior, it presents a risk of serious physical harm or death to human beings if not kept under the direct control of the owner. Dogs found to be vicious in accordance with this chapter shall be subject to the following requirements:
(1) A veterinarian shall implant vicious dogs with a microchip identifying their owner;
(2) Vicious dogs shall not leave the property of their owner except when going to the veterinarian;
(3) If a vicious dog escapes from its owner's control, the owner shall immediately report the escape to the police. The owner shall assist the police in securing its return;
(4) Vicious dogs shall not be outside the property of their owner unless they are securely muzzled and restrained by their owner on a three foot, 300 pound test leash;
(5) Owners of vicious dogs shall provide proof of current liability insurance for damage or injury caused by the vicious dog of not less than $100,000 to the city clerk upon application or renewal of the required animal license;
(6) Vicious dogs shall be kept within a secure building or in an enclosure, both of which shall have signs on all sides and at least every 40 linear feet stating "No Admittance-Vicious/ Dangerous Dog." In addition, signs shall also be posted on all home entrance doors and all gates and yard entrances; and
(7) Enclosures controlling vicious dogs shall have all gates locked at all times with secure childproof locks.
(8) Permit and tag required for vicious dogs.
(a) The owner of a vicious dog shall, within three business days after the classification of the dog as vicious, obtain an annual permit from the city clerk to harbor the dog. The fee for such permit shall be $100. Only one vicious dog permit will be issued per residence.
(b) At the time the permit is issued, a red circular tag shall be issued to the owner of the vicious dog. The tag shall be worn at all times by the dog.
(c) The permit for maintaining a vicious dog shall be presented to a police officer upon demand.
(Ord. O-26-03, passed 5-6-03)