(A) (1) This section provides a means by which neglected, abandoned, mistreated animals or animals treated in a non-humane manner can be removed and impounded for their protection and taken to an animal shelter for proper care.
(2) This section covers all instances of neglect, abandonment, mistreatment or treatment in a non-humane manner including those offenses under I.C. 35-46-3-7 concerning abandonment or neglect of vertebrate animals and I.C. 35-46-3-12 regarding torture or mutilation of a vertebrate animal.
(B) The Town Council hereby adopts the provisions of I.C. 35-46-3-6 as it concerns the impoundment of animals, probable cause hearing, penalties and award of custody of animals.
(C) Any law enforcement officer or animal control officer may lawfully take custody of any animal found abandoned or in distress, upon public or private property by removing the animal from its present location and taking the animal to an animal shelter for proper protection and care.
(D) The owner, keeper, or harborer of such animal impounded shall be responsible for any costs and fees associated with the pick-up and boarding required by an animal control shelter.
(E) Any such animal taken into custody under this section shall be held by the animal control shelter for the same length of time as if the animal was a stray.
(Ord. 2001-006, passed 3-12-01)