§ 6-32. Definitions.

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Animal means any mammal, bird, fowl, reptile, monkey, chimpanzee, bee or other dumb creature including but not limited to horses, cows, goats, sheep, pigs, mules, geese, calves, rabbits, hamsters and mice, but excluding any "pet animal" as defined in the section.

At large means when a pet animal is off the premises of the owner or other person harboring, keeping or maintaining such pet animal and not under the control by leash, cord or chain, of such person or a member of his immediate family.

Dangerous dog means any dog as defined by F.S. § 767.11.

Owner means and includes any person having a right of property in an animal or pet animal or who keeps or harbors an animal or pet animal, or who has its care, or acts as its custodian, or permits an animal or pet animal to remain on or about any premise occupied or controlled by such person.

Pet animal includes all members of the domestic canine (dog) or feline (cat) family. Certain small snakes, ferrets, gerbils or guinea pigs shall be included in this definition if such animals are properly caged and not allowed to run free on any property.

Vaccination against rabies means the injection of rabies vaccine in an amount and manner approved by the state veterinarian.

Vicious dog means any dog that, according to the records of the police department, has severely injured or killed a person or pet animal while off the owner's premises.

(Code 1981, § 4-17; Ord. No. 87-4, § 1, 5-4-1987; Ord. No. 99-06, § 2(4-17), 7-6-1999; Ord. No. 03-07A, § 1, 8-18-2003)

Cross reference

Definitions generally, § 1-2.