(A) Any person may make a complaint of an alleged dangerous animal as that term is defined in this chapter to the Animal Control Officer or law enforcement officer. The officer(s) shall immediately inform the complainant of his or her right to commence a proceeding provided for in division (B), immediately below, and, if there is reason to believe the animal is a dangerous animal, the officer shall forthwith commence such proceeding himself or herself.
(B) Any person may make a complaint under oath or affirmation of an alleged dangerous animal as that term is defined herein to the Board, Animal Control Officer or law enforcement officer. Thereupon, the Board, subject to judicial review, shall immediately determine if there is probable cause to believe the animal is a dangerous animal and, if so, shall issue an order to the Animal Control Officer or other qualified law enforcement officer directing such officer to immediately seize such animal and hold same pending a Board determination as herein provided. If the custodian of the animal refuses to surrender the animal to the officer, the officer shall seek a court order authorizing the seizure of the animal. If the animal is found to be at large, no such court order shall be necessary. The Board shall, within seven business days of a request for a hearing, and upon written notice of not less than three days to the owner of the animal, hold a hearing on the complaint.
(Ord. O-C11-7, passed 12-28-2011)