§ 4-2. Definitions.

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

Abandoned animal and to abandon refers to any animal in which the owner has relinquished all of such owner's right, title, claim and possession with the intent of not reclaiming such animal or resuming the ownership, possession or enjoyment thereof.

Affirmative defense has the same meaning as ascribed to it in V.T.C.A., Penal Code § 2.04.

Animal means dogs.

Be at large or at large. That an animal subject to the terms of this chapter is found off of the premises of the owner of such animal, as well as that such animal is found outside the enclosure in which such animal is required to be kept by the terms of this chapter.

Enclosure means a barn, shed or fence, constructed of wood, masonry, chain link or any combination thereof, sufficient to contain any animal kept therein.

Owner means any person (other than a lien holder) having any interest, legal or equitable, in the title to any property, real, personal or mixed, and includes a lessee, tenant, bailee or other person entitled to the use and possession thereof.

Owner identification tag means a metal tag designed for attachment to the collar of a dog or cat containing the name, current address and telephone number of the owner of such dog or cat.

Rabies vaccination tag means a metal tag issued by a veterinarian, licensed to practice in the state, showing the year of vaccination by shape code or year stamped thereon.

(Ord. No. 2003-04, § 2, 6-9-2003)