§ 8-68. Confiscation of dangerous dogs; grounds; disposition.

(a)

Confiscation. A classified dog shall be immediately confiscated by the animal control officer, by a law enforcement officer, or by another person authorized by the animal control officer in the case of any violation of this division. A refusal to surrender a dog subject to confiscation shall be a violation of this division.

(1)

The owner of any dog that has been confiscated pursuant to this division may recover such dog upon payment of reasonable confiscation and housing costs and proof of compliance with the provision of this division. All fines and charges for services performed by a law enforcement or animal control officer shall be paid prior to owner recovery of the dog. Criminal prosecution shall not be stayed due to owner recovery or euthanasia of dog.

(2)

In the event the owner has not complied with the provisions of this division within 20 days of the date the dog was confiscated, such dog shall be destroyed in an expeditious and humane manner and the owner may be required to pay the costs of housing and euthanasia.

(b)

Return. Any dog that has been confiscated under the provisions of this section shall be returned to its owner upon the owner's compliance with the provisions of this section and upon the payment of reasonable confiscation costs, including an impoundment fee of $100.00, boarding costs of $15.00 per day, and all actual veterinary care costs. In the event the owner has not complied with the provisions of this section within 20 days of the date the dog was confiscated, said dog shall be destroyed in an expeditious and humane manner in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 4-11-5.1; provided, however, upon a showing for good cause, the director of animal control may extend said time, up to an additional 15 days, upon the payment by the owner of the per diem boarding costs for said dog.