A. Whenever a pit bull dog is found within the city of Yakima, the owner shall be notified in writing of the prohibitions contained in this chapter and of the procedure required to redeem the animal. Such notice shall be served upon the owner or, if the owner is not present, then upon any person of suitable age and discretion residing at owner’s residence. Whenever a pit bull dog is found within the city of Yakima, the animal may be temporarily detained by city of Yakima animal control for the purpose of transporting the animal and having a microchip implanted in the animal for future identification. Such detention shall not exceed seventy-two hours, provided that, if the owner is not available to receive the animal, the animal may be held for such longer period as may be necessary to ensure the safety of the animal and the public. The owner shall be responsible for the cost of microchip implantation and any kenneling fees.

B. The owner must permanently remove the pit bull dog from the city of Yakima within forty-eight hours of issuance of the notice required by this section. Failure to remove a pit bull dog within forty-eight hours of such notice shall result in the immediate impoundment of the animal. Whenever any pit bull dog is found within the city of Yakima and the owner has previously had the notice required by this section, the dog may immediately be taken up and impounded by such officer charged with the enforcement of this chapter. Pit bull dogs impounded under this subsection may be redeemed or adopted pursuant to the provisions of Section 6.20.110 of the Yakima Municipal Code. (Ord. 2004-32 § 2, 2004: Ord. 2001-32 § 3, 2001: Ord. 98-27 § 2, 1998).