A. Division Of Animal Control: There is hereby created a division of animal control. (1989 Code § 13-202)
B. Powers Of Animal Control Officials:
1. The animal control officer or any person employed by the city as an animal control officer shall take the oath of office and shall be vested with the power and authority to enforce this chapter.
2. The animal control officer is authorized and empowered to apprehend and take with them and impound any animal found in violation of this chapter and including licensable dogs for which no license has been procured in accordance with this chapter, or any licensed or unlicensed dogs for any other violation thereof.
3. In the enforcement of this chapter, any peace officer or the animal control officer is authorized to enter onto the open premises excluding dwellings of any person to take possession of any dog in violation of this chapter.
4. Any peace officer or the animal control officer is empowered to issue citations in regards to acts in violation of this chapter. (1989 Code § 13-203)
C. Duties Of Animal Control Officials:
1. Any peace officer or the animal control officer shall:
a. Enforce this chapter and perform other responsibilities pursuant thereto;
b. Supervise the municipal animal shelter under his jurisdiction;
c. Keep adequate records of all animals impounded and all monies collected;
d. See that all animals and animal holding facilities in his jurisdiction are licensed, controlled and permitted in accordance with any applicable ordinance and/or regulations.
2. Animal control officers shall:
a. Enforce this chapter in all respects pertaining to animal control within the jurisdiction, including the care and impounding of animals and prevention of cruelty to animals;
b. Carry out all duties prescribed or delegated by the city manager or a designated supervisor. (1989 Code § 13-204)
D. Interference With Officer Prohibited: It shall be unlawful for any person knowingly and intentionally to interfere with any peace officer or any animal control officer in the lawful discharge of his duties as herein prescribed. (1989 Code § 13-205)