Mendota Municipal Code Ch. 6.56 Penalties for Animal Bites and Attacks

A. In any case wherein an animal attacks a human being or another animal, then such act shall constitute a separate and distinct violation, and shall be punishable as follows:

1. Any person whose animal, attacks a human being without causing bodily injury, or attacks another animal, shall be guilty of an infraction and shall be punished upon a first conviction by a fine of one hundred dollars ($100.00) and for a second conviction within a period of one year by a fine of two hundred dollars ($200.00) and for a third or subsequent conviction within one year, by a fine of three hundred dollars ($300.00);

2. Any person whose animal, attacks a human being causing bodily injury shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500.00) or by imprisonment in the county jail for not more than six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment;

3. After each attack or bite, the animal control officer shall determine whether a dog is dangerous or vicious pursuant to Chapter 6.52 of this code.

(Ord. No. 10-10, § 2, 1-11-2011)

Except as otherwise provided in Section 6.56.010 of this chapter, any person violating any provision of this chapter shall be deemed guilty of an infraction and shall be subject to the following fines:

1. Fifty dollars ($50.00) upon the first offense;

2. One hundred dollars ($100.00) upon the second offense in a twelve (12) month period;

3. Two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) upon the third offense in a twelve (12) month period.

If any violation is continued, each day's violation shall be deemed a separate violation. Any person found guilty of more than three violations of this chapter within a twelve (12) month period shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and fined up to one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or imprisoned for a term not to exceed thirty (30) days for each misdemeanor conviction. The person shall also pay any and all expenses, including shelter, food, veterinarian expenses for identification or certification or boarding associated with the seizure of the animal.

(Ord. No. 10-10, § 2, 1-11-2011)