§ 3-4-42. Reclamation.

The owner of any impounded animal may regain possession of the animal upon payment of all applicable fees and compliance with the terms of this chapter. Such redemption shall not affect any criminal liability of the owner, which may exist with respect to any violation of this chapter and shall not preclude proceedings against the owner for the purpose of pursuing sanctions under this chapter. The following exceptions apply:

(a)

Any animal impounded as a result of cruelty, abuse, neglect, or any other reason defined by this chapter as inhumane treatment may be retained by Henry County Animal Care and Control until such time as the case is disposed of in a court competent to hear such matters.

(b)

Prohibited animals impounded by or come to be in the possession of Henry County Animal Care and Control cannot be reclaimed unless the owner can show proof of proper and current licensure allowing them to have possession of such animal.

(c)

Any animal adopted from the Henry County Animal Shelter that was not sterilized per the adoption agreement may immediately be reclaimed by Henry County Animal Care and Control and the owner may not be permitted to reclaim said animal.

(d)

Any dog deemed dangerous or vicious cannot be reclaimed until such time as the requirements for possessing a dangerous or vicious dog have been satisfied. If such requirements are not met within twenty (20) days of impoundment, the dog shall be deemed permanently relinquished to Henry County Animal Care and Control and will be immediately destroyed.

(Ord. No. 12-12, § II, 7-16-12)