For purposes of this chapter, including each article under this chapter, unless the context indicates otherwise, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this section:
ANIMAL CONTROL: | The city department and its officers that have been appointed by the city council to enforce the animal control ordinances of the city, or another governmental agency or private party which the city council has appointed by contract for such purpose. |
AT LARGE: | An animal is at large if it is found within the city off the premises of its owner or caretaker, however, an animal will not be deemed at large if: A. It is properly housed in a veterinary hospital, licensed kennel, pet shop, or animal shelter. B. It is under the control of authorized public safety personnel. C. It is under the control of a professional handler for special events including, but not limited to, 4-H events, school events, sanctioned pet or animal shows, training activities, or animal assisted therapy. In addition, a dog or cat, properly licensed as required by article A of this chapter, will not be deemed at large if: a) it is restrained by a rope, leash, cord, chain, or restraining device not less than ten feet (10') in length, or is properly restrained within a motor vehicle or trailer, or b) it is within the fenced boundaries of an area designated by the city as a dog park and the owner or caretaker is present. |
CARETAKER: | Any person having possession of an animal, for a period of more than six (6) hours for any purpose, where the person in possession does not own the animal, other than a licensed veterinarian, animal behaviorist, animal shelter, or member of the owner's immediate family who resides in the same household as the owner. |
OWNER: | Any person owning, keeping or harboring an animal or fowl. (Ord. 5204, 3-10-2014; amd. Ord. 5684, 1-17-2023) |