Sec. 3-26. - Disposition of animals.

(a)

Any animal seized in the enforcement of any law or court order that does not already have set rules for the disposition of that animal, shall be impounded, and if the identity of owner is known by animal control, the animal control officer shall make every possible, reasonable effort to notify the owners of such animals so impounded and to inform the owners of the conditions whereby they may regain custody of their animal. Animal(s) seized will then be held for a period of ten days, at the owner's expense, unless (i) a release is signed by owner or guardian relinquishing ownership of the animal to the city, (ii) the animal is euthanized for humane reasons, or (iii), the owner remedies the problem for which the animal was seized, and the animal control officer sees it fit to return the animal to the owner upon payment of fees. Upon conclusion of the ten-day hold period, if the owner has not come forward, the animal may be humanely destroyed, have its title transferred to the Rhode Island S.P.C.A., or be placed in a suitable home or with a rescue group. The owner/guardian shall be accountable for all fines, fees, and costs to the city for the minimum care of the animal.

(b)

In addition to any other applicable law regarding the disposition of domestic animals, the animal shelter shall meet the following conditions before euthanizing an adoptable animal pursuant to this section:

(1)

There are no empty cages, kennels, or other living environments in the shelter suitable for the animal; and

(2)

Another municipal or private animal shelter or Rhode Island incorporated animal organization is unwilling to accept the animal; and

(3)

The animal control officer or manager of the animal shelter has certified that the above conditions have been met or that he/she has no reasonable alternative.

(c)

Section (b) above shall not apply under the following exceptions:

(1)

There is an emergency situation where an animal will needlessly suffer. The animal control officer (ACO) or any police officer may immediately, at his/her discretion, euthanize said animal by use of firearm.

(2)

The existence of any law or court order that requires the euthanasia of an animal.

(3)

A licensed veterinarian certifies that an animal must be euthanized for humane reasons.

(Ch. 449, § I, 5-6-08; Ch. 557, § VI, 6-5-12; Ch. 755, § I, 12-3-19)