§ 5-33. Impoundment and redemption of animals.

(a)

The animal control officer may apprehend any animal found being cruelly treated and/or doing or subject to any of the acts defined herein as violations. After impoundment, the animal control agency shall determine whether the animal is licensed or otherwise identifiable, and make reasonable effort to notify the owner either by mail or telephone that the animal has been impounded and under what conditions it may be redeemed. The animal shall remain impounded in the animal shelter for not less than five working days, unless claimed by its owner, after which disposition may be made as herein provided.

(b)

An impounded animal eligible to be released may be redeemed by its owner upon proof of ownership and after payment of all applicable fines, impound fees and reasonable boarding fees. The animal control agency may waive the first impound fee if an animal is redeemed by its owner the same day it is impounded.

(c)

An impounded animal that is not redeemed within the periods provided may be offered for adoption pursuant to the requirements of Section 823.15, Florida Statutes, or humanely euthanized at the discretion of the animal control agency. No dog or cat shall be released by the animal control agency or from an animal shelter for any purposes except redemption by the owner or adoption for the limited purpose of harboring a household pet.

(d)

The owner of an impounded animal shall be responsible for and shall pay the following impound fees:

a.

First impound ..... $20.00

b.

Second impound of the same animal ..... 30.00

c.

Third impound of the same animal, or the third time an animal is impounded belonging to the same owner ..... 50.00

d.

Fourth impound requires a mandatory court appearance.

(Ord. No. 92-25, § 13, 11-3-92)