(A) Defined. DANGEROUS ANIMAL means any wild mammal, reptile or fowl which is not naturally tamed or gentle but is of a wild nature or disposition and which, because of its size, vicious nature or other characteristics could constitute a danger to human life or property. The term DANGEROUS ANIMAL also means and includes any domestic mammal, reptile or fowl which, because of its size or vicious propensity or other characteristics, could constitute a danger to human life or property.
(B) Prohibited. No person shall own or possess a dangerous animal within the city.
(C) Exceptions. Division (B) of this section shall not apply to animals under the control of a law enforcement or military agency, nor to animals which are kept for the protection of property, provided that such animals are restrained by a leash or chain, cage, fence or other adequate means from contact with the general public or with persons who enter the premises with the actual or implied permission of the owner or occupant.
(D) Seizure of animals. Any dangerous animal which is found off the premises of his owner may be seized by any police officer and immediately turned over to the County Department of Animal Control.
(1990 Code, § 9.86)