§ 4-505. Redemption of impounded animal.

(a)

Except as may be specifically provided otherwise in this chapter, the owner of an impounded animal may reclaim the animal, during normal hours of operation of the authorized impoundment facility, on the following conditions:

(1)

Satisfactory proof of ownership of the animal;

(2)

Photo identification by the person reclaiming the animal;

(3)

Proof of current vaccination of the animal, if vaccination of the animal is required by the provisions of this chapter;

(4)

Payment of all impoundment fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the city in keeping the animal and/or attempting to locate the owner of the animal;

(5)

Payment of the costs of the fitting and registration of the fitting of the animal with a microchip under the auspices of the animal shelter; or

(6)

Any other standing requirements at the authorized impoundment facility.

(b)

If an impounded dog or cat has not been spayed or neutered and has previously been impounded on two or more occasions, the city may, in addition to the requirements of subsection (a) of this section require that the animal be spayed or neutered prior to release of the animal to the owner.

(c)

A dangerous wild animal may be reclaimed only under the following conditions:

(1)

Compliance with the provisions of subsection (a) of this section;

(2)

Proof that the person reclaiming the animal holds a valid certificate of registration for the animal issued by an animal registration agency in compliance with the provisions of V.T.C.A., Health and Safety Code § 822.103; and

(3)

The execution of a written agreement by the owner of the animal to immediately remove the animal from the city limits.

(d)

Nothing herein shall be construed to authorize the release or reclaiming of an animal subject to quarantine until completion of the quarantine period.

(Ord. No. 021209-01, § 5.105, 2-12-2009)