For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ACTS DEEMED PUBLIC NUISANCE. Any dog that habitually or repeatedly chases, snaps at, attacks or barks at pedestrians, bicyclists or vehicles; turns over garbage pails or damages ornamental gardens, plant beds or livestock; or a female dog which runs at large during the erotic stage of estrus.
ANIMAL. Any dog, cat or other domestic household pet.
ANIMAL SHELTER. Any premises designated by the county for the purposes of impounding and caring for all animals found running at large or otherwise subject to impounding in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
AT LARGE. Any animal shall be deemed at large when the animal is off the property of his or her owner and not under the control of a competent person.
DAY. Each work day and shall include Saturday, Sunday and all legal holidays.
ENFORCEMENT OFFICER. Any county employee appointed by the County Commissioners to enforce the provisions of this chapter.
EXPOSED TO RABIES. An animal has been exposed to rabies within the meaning of this chapter, if it has been bitten by, or been in the immediate area of any animal known or suspected to have been infected with rabies.
KENNEL DEALER. BREEDER OR PET SHOP. Any person, group of persons, partnership or corporation engaged in buying, selling, breeding or boarding animals.
NEUTERED MALE. Any male which has been operated upon to prevent reproduction.
OWNER. Any person, group of persons, firm, partnership or corporation owning, keeping, having charge of, sheltering, feeding harboring or taking care of any animal. The OWNER is responsible for the care, actions and behavior of his or her animal.
RESTRAINT. An animal is under RESTRAINT within the meaning of this chapter if the animal is controlled by means of a chain, leash or other like device; or, is sufficiently near the owner or handler to be under his or her direct control and is obedient to that person's commands; or, is within a secure enclosure.
SPAYED FEMALE. Any female which has been operated upon to prevent conception.
STRAY DOGS. Any dog within the county wandering at large or does not have an owner or any dog within the county whose owner fails to have the dog vaccinated against rabies by a veterinarian.
VICIOUS ANIMAL. Any animal that has made an unprovoked attack on a human by biting or in any manner causing abrasions or cuts of the skin; or, one who habitually or repeatedly attacks farm stock or other pets.
(Prior Code, § 3.1.01)