§ 8-101. Abandonment of an animal; exceptions.

(a)

It shall be unlawful for anyone to knowingly abandon or to aid in the abandonment of any animal.

(b)

For the purposes of this chapter, abandonment of an animal includes:

(1)

Willfully and voluntarily physically abandoning an animal on public or private property with the intention of severing all duties and responsibilities to such animal. Intent to abandon may be demonstrated by activities, including, but not limited to, leaving an animal contained in a box or bag, or tethering an animal to a fence, house or other structure without the permission of the property owner;

(2)

Leaving an animal unattended for a period of time in excess of 24 hours without food, water, adequate ventilation, or shelter on public or private property, including, but not limited to, the property of the owner;

(3)

Placing an animal in the custody of a state licensed entity, including, but not limited to, a veterinary clinic, grooming facility, boarding facility, or pet sitter for treatment, boarding, or other care, and failing to reclaim the animal by the agreed upon time. The entity shall abide by the requirements of O.C.G.A. § 44-14-490 in disposing of the animal.

(4)

Failing to redeem an impounded or confiscated animal within the period specified in section 8-37, or failing to pay all fees and costs pursuant to section 8-32.

(c)

Exceptions. The following shall not be deemed the abandonment of an animal:

(1)

An animal that is deserted when premises are temporarily vacated for the protection of human life during a disaster or emergency hospitalization shall not be regarded as abandoned under this article where the owner or custodian lacked sufficient time or resources to make reasonable arrangements for the adequate care and custody of the animal.

(2)

An animal surrendered through a mutual written agreement with county animal control, the county humane society, other licensed rescue group, licensed veterinarians, individual, or other entity shall not be deemed abandoned but shall be considered surrendered to the entity.

(3)

An animal left unattended when its sole owner dies shall not be deemed abandoned, and shall be impounded by county animal control a family member can be located to take custody of the animal. If a family member cannot be located, then the animal will be held in compliance with section 8-37.

(d)

Animals abandoned under this section shall be deemed abandoned to county animal control, in which event all rights of ownership shall vest in county animal control and the owner shall have no further claim to such animal.

(Ord. No. 16-008 , 12-19-2016)