As used in this article, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
THREATENING DOG
A canine or canine crossbreed whose actions and/or behaviors
place a person in reasonable apprehension of bodily injury.
While on the property of its owner, an animal
found to be a threatening dog shall be confined indoors or in a securely
enclosed and locked structure of sufficient height and design to prevent
its escape or direct contact with or entry by minors, adults, or other
animals. The structure shall be designed to provide the animal with
shelter from the elements of nature. When off the owner's property,
an animal found to be a threatening dog shall be kept on a leash.
If the owner of an animal found to be threatening
is a minor, the custodial parent or legal guardian shall be responsible
for complying with all the requirements of this article.
After an animal has been found to be a threatening
dog, the animal's owner shall immediately, upon learning the same,
notify the Sheriff's Office if the animal is loose or unconfined;
threatens a person; bites a person or attacks another animal; is sold,
given away, or dies; or has been moved to a different address.
A violation of this article shall be punishable
as a Class 3 misdemeanor for the first offense, and any subsequent
violation shall be punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor.