(A) The Animal Control Director may find and declare a dog dangerous or potentially dangerous if probable cause is found to believe that the dog falls within the definitions set forth in this chapter. The finding must be based upon one or more of the following:
(1) The written and signed complaint of a citizen, who is willing to testify that the dog has acted in a manner that is defined as a dangerous dog or potentially dangerous dog;
(2) Authenticated dog bite reports filed with the county’s Animal Control Department;
(3) Actions of the dog witnessed and reported upon by any animal control officer or law enforcement officer;
(4) The declaration by a judicial authority or another animal control authority pursuant to G.S. § 67.1; and
(5) Other credible evidence.
(B) The declaration notice of potentially dangerous dog or dangerous dog shall be in writing and shall be served on the owner in person, or by certified mail, to the owner’s last known address.
(C) The declaration shall state:
(1) A description of the dog;
(2) The name and address of the owner of the dog, if known;
(3) The whereabouts of the dog if it is not in the custody of the owner;
(4) The facts upon which the declaration is based;
(5) The restrictions placed on the dog as a result of the declaration; and
(6) Penalty for violation of this subchapter, state law, or other applicable laws, including the possibility of destruction of the dog.
(Ord. passed 6-2-2018)