Village of Richfield, WI Article III Dog Impoundment

§ 118-14 Generally.

A law enforcement officer, humane officer, Washington County Sheriff, or other person restraining a dog running at large shall take such dog to the county pound. The boarding fee for impounded dogs shall be the current county fees. The keeper of the pound shall attempt to identify and notify the owner and shall keep a public record of all such dogs impounded.

§ 118-15 Release of dog to owner or representative.

The keeper of the pound may release the dog to the owner or his or her representative if the owner or representative:

A. Gives his or her name and address.

B. Presents evidence that the dog is licensed and vaccinated against rabies.

C. Pays the dog's boarding fee, as provided in the current schedule.

§ 118-16 Release of dog to person other than owner.

If the owner of the dog is unknown or does not reclaim the dog within seven days, the keeper of the pound may release the dog to a person other than the owner if such person:

A. Gives his or her name and address.

B. Signs a statement agreeing to license the dog and have the animal vaccinated against rabies.

§ 118-17 Disposition of dog.

If the dog is not released to the owner or other person in seven days, the keeper may dispose of the dog as provided in § 174.13, Wis. Stats., or dispose of the dog in a proper and humane manner.

§ 118-18 Investigation.

For the purpose of discharging the duties imposed by this chapter and to enforce its provisions, any law enforcement officer is empowered to enter upon any premises upon which a dog is kept or harbored and to demand the exhibition by the owner of such dog or the license for such dog. It is further provided that a law enforcement officer may enter the premises where any animal is kept in a reportedly cruel or inhumane manner and demand to examine such animal and to take possession of such animal when, in his or her opinion, it requires removal from the premises.