For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
DANGEROUS DOG. A dog which has:
(1) Without provocation, while off its owner’s or harborer’s premises, caused an individual to reasonably believe that the dog will cause physical harm to a person; or
(2) Has a propensity or disposition to unprovokedly attack or cause injury to humans or domestic animals off its owner’s or harborer’s premises.
HARBOR. To control, possess or oversee.
INJURY. Any injury less than a severe injury.
LEASH. A rope, leather strap, chain or any type of tether of sufficient strength to bind a dog to the person harboring the dog.
PERSON. Any individual, partnership, firm, joint stock company, corporation, association, trust, estate or other legal entity. The knowledge and actions of the person employed by or its agents acting or behalf of corporations or principals shall be inputted to be the knowledge and acts of both the individuals, corporation and principals. If the owner of a dog is a minor, then the minor’s parents or legal guardian is deemed the owner for the purposes of this chapter.
PREMISES. The structure and the real property which is immediately surrounding the structure titled to or controlled by the owner or harborer of a dog. This shall include any place of residence, business or other property.
SEVERE INJURY. A physical injury to a human being that results in a broken bone or muscle tear requiring corrective or cosmetic surgery or resulting in hospitalization; any physical injury to a child under the age of seven requiring treatment by a licensed physician.
VICIOUS DOG. Any dog which:
(1) Without provocation, has inflicted severe injury on a person;
(2) Has been trained for dog fighting or is kept primarily or in part for the purpose of dog fighting;
(3) Is a dog commonly defined as a pit bull; or
(4) Has been used in the commission of a crime.
(2003 Code, § 90.01) (Ord. 3447, passed 1-3-2002)