§ 2-4-22. Adoption.

(a)

Any animal that has not been timely redeemed, has been released to the division, or is otherwise the legal property of the County, may be placed for adoption.

(b)

The adoption fee shall be established by board resolution.

(c)

The division has the final authority to approve the adoption of any animal. The division may refuse an adoption if it determines that the adoption is not in the best interest of the animal or may be detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of the general public.

(d)

The new owner must execute an adoption agreement with the division and comply with its provisions. Failure to do so will constitute a breach of the agreement subject to penalty provided by this ordinance and may include forfeiture of the animal to the division.

(e)

All dogs and cats that become the property of the county pursuant to this ordinance that are subsequently adopted shall be sterilized prior to release.

(f)

The adopted animal may be microchipped by the division prior to release unless a county veterinarian determines it is not in the best interest of the animal.

(g)

The new owner is responsible for payment of all fees and costs pertaining to the animal and undertakes all liability and risk associated with the ownership of the animal. The county will bear no responsibility or liability for the actions of the animal and will in no way represent or warrant the health of the animal.

(Ord. No. 12-10, § 1, 5-8-12)