§ 4-301. Animals in motor vehicles.

(a)

A person commits an offense if he intentionally, knowingly, recklessly or with criminal negligence leaves an animal unattended in any standing or parked vehicle in such a way as to endanger the animal's physical health, safety or immediate welfare. In the event that a person is found guilty of this offense, the municipal court shall, in addition to any fine and court costs assessed, assess any and all fees and expenses incurred pursuant to the provisions of subsection (b) of this section.

(b)

In the event that an animal is left unattended in any standing or parked vehicle in such a way as to endanger the animal's physical health, safety or immediate welfare, an animal control officer or police officer shall make a reasonable attempt to locate the owner or person in control of the vehicle. In the event that the owner of the vehicle cannot be located after a reasonable attempt, an animal control officer or police officer is authorized to use reasonable force and measures to remove the animal from the vehicle to secure the animal's physical health and safety. An animal removed from a vehicle under these circumstances shall be taken to an authorized facility or a veterinarian if the animal is determined to be in physical distress, and a written notice shall be attached to the vehicle by the animal control officer or police officer advising of the telephone number and address of the location from which the animal may be claimed. The city shall have no responsibility for any damage sustained to a vehicle in the course of securing the safety of an animal under this section.

(c)

A person commits an offense if he intentionally, knowingly, recklessly or with criminal negligence transports an animal in a motor vehicle, trailer or other conveyance in a cruel, inhumane or unsafe manner.

(Ord. No. 021209-01, § 3.101, 2-12-2009)