§ 4-103. Dog declared dangerous/vicious.

(a)

Within 30 days after a dog has been classified as dangerous/vicious, the owner of the dog must obtain a certificate of registration and a tag for the dog from the animal control authority and the certificate shall be renewed annually. The animal control manager, or his designee, is authorized to issue such certificates of registration, and renewals thereof, only to persons who are at least 18 years of age and who present to the animal control manager or his designee sufficient evidence of:

(1)

A current certificate of rabies vaccination for the dog;

(2)

A proper enclosure to confine a dangerous/vicious dog and the posting of the premises with a clearly visible warning sign at all entry points which informs both children and adults of a dangerous/vicious dog on the property or premises which reads: "Warning: Dangerous/Vicious Dog On Premises;"

(3)

Permanent identification of the dog as evidenced by an electronic implantation device;

(4)

A current dangerous/vicious dog tag from the animal control manager which must be worn by the dog at all times;

(5)

A current public liability insurance policy or a bond in the amount of $50,000.00 that is in effect insuring the owner of the dog for any damages, whether arising from personal injury or otherwise, which may be caused by the dangerous/vicious dog. In the event said liability insurance or bond is canceled, lapses, or for any other reason becomes unenforceable, said owner shall be in violation of the provisions of this chapter; and

(6)

A current certificate of registration.

(7)

A spay or neuter procedure.

(b)

The annual fee for the issuance of certificates of registration and dangerous/vicious dog tags shall be imposed in the amount of $50.00. For purposes of administering the provisions of this section, the fees provided herein shall be credited to the Memphis and Shelby County Health Department in a specific line item account.

(c)

The owner shall immediately notify the appropriate animal control authority when a dog that has been classified as dangerous/vicious:

(1)

Is running at large or unconfined.

(2)

Has bitten a human being.

(3)

Is sold, given away, or dies.

(4)

Is moved to another address.

(d)

Prior to a dangerous/vicious dog being sold or given away, the owner shall provide the name, address and telephone number of the new owner to the animal control authority. Any new owner residing in the county must comply with all the requirements of this chapter.

(e)

It is unlawful for the owner of a dangerous/vicious dog to permit the dog to be outside a proper enclosure unless the dog is muzzled and restrained by a substantial chain or leash and under the control of a competent person. The muzzle shall be made in a manner that will not cause injury to the dog or interfere with its vision or respiration, but shall prevent it from biting any person.

(Code 1992, § 3-63; Ord. No. 261, § 5(C), 5-13-2002; Ord. No. 410, 1-9-2012)