§ 8.08.030. Right of entry.

Any animal control officer finding an animal inhumanely treated, shall, pursuant to a warrant or court order, cause the animal to be impounded or otherwise properly cared for, and the expenses of such impoundment or care shall be a lien on the animal to be paid before the animal may be lawfully recovered. However, a warrant or court order is not necessary if the animal is severely injured, severely diseased, or suffering and any delay in impounding the animal would continue to cause the animal extreme suffering or if other exigent circumstances exist. If any animal is impounded or subjected to other action under this section without a warrant or court order, the officer or agent shall subsequently show cause for the impoundment or other action to the court, and the court shall issue an order ratifying the impoundment or action; or, if sufficient cause for the impoundment or action is not shown, the court shall order the return of the animal to the owner or other appropriate remedy. The owner or caretaker of an animal impounded or cared for pursuant to this provision is liable for the expense of services rendered. The payment shall be on vouchers. Expenses may be recovered in a civil action against the owner unless the expenses are paid within thirty days after notice and demand.

(Ord. No. 2105-8-22, 12-12-2011)