§ 4-2. Definitions.

Domesticated animal means any animal raised to live in close proximity to man. Such animals shall include dogs, cats, livestock or reptiles.

Domesticated animal at large means any animal running loose not under the restraint or control of the owner or representative of the owner on or off the premises of the owner.

Owner means any person who owns, or possesses, harbors or keeps, or knowingly permits an animal to be harbored or kept or has an animal in his care, or who permits an animal to remain on or about his premises for more than three (3) days.

Public nuisance means any animal that unreasonably annoys humans, causes hurt, inconvenience or damage to another, endangers the life or health of other animals or persons, or substantially interferes with the rights of citizens, other than their owners, to the enjoyment of life or property. The term "public nuisance" shall include but is not limited to, any animal that;

(1)

Is found at large;

(2)

Damages the property of anyone other than its owner;

(3)

Chases vehicles or human propelled transportation;

(4)

Attacks other domestic animals;

(5)

Threatens to do harm to, or attacks pedestrians or passersby; or

(6)

Has been found to be a public nuisance animal by virtue of being a menace to the public health welfare or safety.

Vaccination means a protection against rabies by inoculation with anti-rabies vaccine given in an amount sufficient to provide immunity from rabies for a minimum period one (1) year.

Animal control officer means a person designated by the Board of Commissioners of the City of Hawkinsville, Georgia for the purpose of administration and enforcement of the provisions of this animal control chapter.

Animal shelter means any facility operated by or participated in by the City of Hawkinsville, Georgia under contract for the purpose of impounding or caring for animals held under the authority of this chapter.

Governing authority means the Board of Commissioners of the City of Hawkinsville, Georgia.

Jurisdiction means the incorporated area within the City of Hawkinsville, Georgia.

Inhumane treatment of animal means the failure, omission, or neglect to provide adequate food, water, shelter and protection from the elements and the failure to provide an appropriate vaccination for an animal.

(Ord. of 7-1-02)