For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ANIMAL. Every living creature, domestic or non-domestic, but does not include humans.
ANIMAL SHELTER. Any premises designated by the Nash County Health Director for the purpose of impounding and caring for all animals.
AT LARGE. Any animal shall be deemed to be at large when it is off the property of its owner or keeper and not under physical restraint.
EXPOSED TO RABIES. An animal shall be deemed to have been exposed to rabies if it has been bitten by or been in the presence of, any animal known or suspected to have been infected with rabies.
IMPOUNDMENT. Any animal in custody of a person or animal shelter duly authorized by the Nash County Health Director.
KEEPER. A person having custody of an animal or who keeps or harbors an animal or who knowingly permits an animal to remain on or about any premises occupied or controlled by the person.
NUISANCE. An animal or group of animals shall be considered a nuisance if it:
(1) Damages, soils or defiles private or public property;
(2) Interferes with, molests or attacks persons or other animals;
(3) Is repeatedly at large;
(4) Causes unsanitary, dangerous or offensive conditions including fouling of the air by odors;
(5) Chases, snaps at, harasses or impedes pedestrians, bicyclists or vehicles;
(6) By virtue of number or type is offensive or dangerous to the public health, safety or welfare;
(7) Is diseased or dangerous to the public health; and/or
(8) Creates any other undesirable action.
OWNER. A person having the right of property in an animal.
PERSON. Any individual, corporation, partnership organization or institution commonly recognized by law as a unit.
RESTRAINT. Any animal shall be considered under restraint if it is within the real property limits of its owner or secured by a leash or lead or confined.
STRAY. Any domestic animal not under restraint and found off the property of its owner or keeper.
SUSPECTED OF HAVING RABIES. An animal which is unvaccinated against rabies or has bitten a person.
VETERINARY HOSPITAL. Any establishment maintained and operated by a licensed veterinarian for surgery, diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries of animals.
VICIOUS ANIMAL. An animal that constitutes a physical threat to humans or other domestic animals.
(1988 Code, § 91.25) (Ord. passed 11-4-1986)