Can Animal Services remove an aggressive dog from an irresponsible owner?
A. A dog is considered property, and Animal Services cannot remove someone’s property without official cause or a judge’s order. As long as an owner keeps his dog(s) confined to his property and complies with animal ordinances, Animal Services cannot take any action against the owner, such as taking the person’s dog from them. If the dog is violating the leash laws or other County Ordinances, Animal Services may cite the owner. However, Animal Services officers do not have the authority to remove the animal. To cite the owner, officers must witness violations. Or, a resident who has witnessed a violation must provide our department with a properly prepared statement in order for a formal complaint to be issued. These formal complaints are called civil infractions.
