Full Text of the Heart Ordinance

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CITY of ALBUQUERQUE

SIXTEENTH COUNCIL

COUNCIL BILL NO. F/S 0-05-135 ENACTMENT NO. ________________________

SPONSORED BY: Sally Mayer

ORDINANCE

REPEALING CHAPTER 9, ARTICLE 2, PARTS 1, 2, 3 ,4 AND 5 ROA 1994, THE ALBUQUERQUE ANIMAL SERVICES ORDINANCE; CREATING THE ALBUQUERQUE HUMANE AND ETHICAL ANIMAL RULES AND TREATMENT (HEART) ORDINANCE; DEFINING TERMS; ESTABLISHING REQUIRED CARE AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS; ESTABLISHING REQUIRED LICENSE AND PERMITS; ESTABLISHING FEES; SETTING FORTH PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES; ESTABLISHING PROCEDURES FOR DEALING WITH RABIES; CREATING PROCEDURES FOR LOST AND FOUND COMPANION ANIMALS; CREATING ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS FOR ANIMAL CASES; ESTABLISHING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL, THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF ALBUQUERQUE:

SECTION 1. REPEALER. Chapter 9, Article 2, Parts 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 ROA 1994 are repealed upon the effective date of this ordinance.

SECTION 2. NEW MATERIAL. Chapter 9, Article 2 is hereby added to read as follows:

“PART 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS.

§ 9-2-1-1. SHORT TITLE.

This ordinance may be cited as the “Humane and Ethical Animal Rules and Treatment (HEART) Ordinance”.

§ 9-2-1-2. FINDINGS.

(A) The Council finds that the City shall endeavor to protect animals in the City. Nothing herein shall be interpreted as expanding the scope of the City’s liability under the New Mexico Tort Claims Act.

(B) The Council further finds that the people of Albuquerque should treat animals as more than just lifeless inanimate chattel property and recognizes that the relationship between human beings and animals is a special relationship that improves people’s lives and reflects basic humanitarian beliefs.

(C) The Council further finds that the public mind-set toward animals must shift to the more progressive, humane, and compassionate attitude evident in other jurisdictions with stricter animal laws. Several other municipalities have achieved positive animal population management results by aggressively licensing and microchipping companion animals, permitting and tracking pet sales and animal breeding, and providing funding for free low and moderate income spay and neuter programs.

(D) The Council further finds that the City should continue to fund free low and moderate income microchipping and spay and neuter programs through fees collected in this ordinance and from general fund monies as needed.

(E) The Council further finds that it is important to assist the public in finding lost pets by encouraging individuals who find strays to provide information about the lost animals to the City so the City can post the information at AACC facilities and on the website. The City will create a Lost and Found program that will be on the City website. Individuals who have lost an animal will have the opportunity to access complete information about whether the City or any other person has found that animal.

(F) The Council further finds that in certain situations animals may pose a serious public safety threat to our community. The City of Albuquerque shall endeavor to work toward the prevention of animal attacks on humans and other animals. Laws against chaining animals, stricter laws dealing with animal overpopulation, and enforcing animal restraint and housing laws are tools to help eliminate dogs roaming at large and will ultimately help make our community safer.

(G) The Council further finds that dogs that bark excessively, and not in response to any apparent stimulus, create a public nuisance. Many dogs spend much of their lives alone in yards or restrained by ropes or chains. Dogs that are restrained by chaining or tethering are more likely to create barking problems, are more likely to be aggressive toward humans and other animals, and are more likely to run away and end up in animal shelters that have no choice but to euthanize them. The Council is opposed to the restraint of companion animals by ropes or chains and is also opposed to owners who refuse to provide adequate care or supervision for companion animals in their charge.

(H) The Council further finds that spayed and neutered animals are less likely to run loose, bark excessively, and endanger the public and other animals. Most importantly, altered animals do not add to the animal overpopulation problem. Altered animals are less likely to end up at animal shelters that have no other option but to destroy those animals.

• (I) The Council further finds that companion animal over-population in the City endangers animals and human beings. Animal overpopulation requires taxpayers to bear the burden of caring for tens of thousands of unwanted or lost animals. In 2005, the City was forced to euthanize an average of 300 unwanted dogs and cats a week. We must lower the overwhelming supply of animals, bringing it in line with the much lower demand.

(J) The Council further finds that some jurisdictions have abandoned the common law rule of categorizing animals as chattel property, subject to the complete discretion of the owner. These progressive jurisdictions have expanded the role of government to include protecting animals from unfettered callous acts that cause pain or suffering. Under this modern, progressive view, the state can obtain warrants to search property based on probable cause pertaining to cruelty or neglect of an animal and enter property without a warrant based on exigent circumstances to seize an animal that is in need of emergency medical care. The Council finds that this progressive approach is appropriate for the City.

(K) The Council further finds that animal abuse has a direct and significant correlation with domestic violence, child abuse, and elder abuse. The Council finds that there are several obvious indicators of animal abuse and neglect that should be much more vigorously investigated and prosecuted by the City in order to help uncover other abuse occurring in the family. In many abuse situations, the victim is not willing to leave behind an animal that will almost certainly become the next victim of abuse. Although domestic violence and emergency shelters provide an invaluable service, they are not able to accept animals. The AACC is in the position to help with this problem.

(L) The Council further finds that judges have a significant role in the disposition of animal cases and respectfully asks our courts to strictly enforce animal cases to the fullest extent of the law, to treat animal abuse as a serious offense, because all types of abuse have a direct correlation and must be unacceptable behavior.

(M) The Council further finds that responsible pet owners already provide adequate health care, proper food, and water and successfully restrain the animals in their custody and will not be overly burdened by this ordinance.

§ 9-2-1-3 LEGISLATIVE PURPOSE AND INTENT.

(A) The focus of this ordinance is the prevention of cruelty, harm, suffering, abandonment or death of animals caused by irresponsible pet owners and the criminal acts of callous individuals. Mandatory spay and neuter laws will help stop animal overpopulation.

(C) AACC facilities are not just a series of holding pens where animals are incarcerated for doing something wrong. The AACC will humanely and compassionately care for animals housed at the AACC facilities by providing a safe haven for animals while trying to reunite lost animals with their owners or find new successful adoptive homes for the animals at AACC. The employees of AACC shall be advocates for animals.

(D) The City Council intends through this ordinance to deter and modify the habits and conduct of irresponsible pet owners who are the source of public safety problems and the suffering of animals.

§ 9-2-1-4 DEFINITIONS.

For the purpose of this ordinance, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning:

AACC. Albuquerque Animal Care Center.

AACC VETERINARIAN. A Veterinarian employed by the City and assigned to AACC.

AACC WEBSITE. An Internet site maintained by AACC.

ABANDONMENT. An Owner’s intentional act of abdicating reasonable care or control of an Animal in a location where any reasonable person would know the Animal has little chance of finding food, Potable Water or shelter.

ADEQUATE SHELTER. A structurally sound, adequately ventilated, weatherproof structure that is comprised of non-toxic materials and interior floors that minimize injury and discomfort to the Animal. The structure must be clean and of a suitable size as to limit overcrowding by properly accommodating the specific Animal. The structure must protect the Animal from extreme conditions. The Animal must be able to lie down fully and rise to its feet, in a natural manner, consistent with the Animal's species. An Adequate Shelter must be within a Secure Fence.

ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING. The process by which any grievance under this ordinance is resolved by adjudication.

ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING OFFICER. A contract administrative law judge retained by the City to conduct hearings under this ordinance.

ADOPTION. The transfer of ownership of an Animal Impounded at AACC to a Qualified Adopter.

AGGRESSIVE. With respect to a Companion Animal in the care of AACC, that the Companion Animal is objectively observable as unnaturally hostile or violent toward humans when unprovoked according to a comprehensive checklist of observable objective characteristics of the Companion Animal compiled by two or more Independent Observers conducting evaluations at different times and with respect to a Companion Animal not in the care of AACC, that the Companion Animal is objectively observable as unnaturally hostile or violent toward humans when unprovoked according to the perspective of any reasonable Person objectively observing the Companion Animal.

ALBUQUERQUE ANIMAL CARE CENTER OR AACC. Any premises, locations or buildings designated as suitable by the Mayor for the care, custody and maintenance of Animals seized by the City.

ALTER. To render an Animal incapable of reproduction.

AMERICAN VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. Not-for-profit association representing more than 72,000 Veterinarians, the goal of which is improving Animal and human health and advancing the Veterinary medical profession.

ANIMAL. Any living nonhuman mammal, bird, reptile, or amphibian including, but not limited to, bats, Companion Animals, Companion Birds, Domestic Animals, Exotic or Wild Animals, Livestock, pigeons, porcupines, Poultry, prairie dogs, rabbits and skunks. For the purpose of this ordinance, insects and arachnids are not included in the definition of Animals.

ANIMAL BROKERS. Individual who or group which deals in regulated Animals but does not take physical possession. Must be licensed through the USDA. Sometimes known as “bunchers”, unscrupulous brokers are known to pose as loving adopters, even bringing children with them when responding to “free to good home” ads in local newspapers.

ANIMAL SERVICE OFFICER OR ASO. Any Person employed by the City, assigned to AACC and charged by the Mayor with enforcement of this ordinance in the field and to perform other duties as assigned by the Mayor.

ANIMAL-DRAWN VEHICLE. Any vehicle pulled by an Animal.

ANIMAL-DRAWN VEHICLE PERMIT OR ADVP. A Permit allowing a Person to attach an Animal to a vehicle for the purpose of moving the vehicle.

ANIMAL EXHIBIT. A Companion Animal or Companion Bird show, petting zoo, pony ride, rodeo or other Animal activity operated for the purposes of showing Animals. Prohibited Exotic or Wild Animals are forbidden in Animal Exhibits.

ANIMAL FIGHTING PARAPHERNALIA. Equipment that any reasonable Person would ascertain is used for Animal fighting purposes which includes, but is not limited to, (1) instruments designed to be attached to the leg of a bird, such as a knife, gaff or other sharp instrument, (2) items to train and condition dogs to fight including, but not limited to, hides or other material used as hanging devices to strengthen or condition dogs, wooden sticks or handles used to pry open dog's jaws, performance enhancing drugs or substances, or food or water additives, and (3) the presence of any dog that appears to be a fighting dog alone or together with Animals suspected of being used as Bait Animals, including, but not limited to, rabbits, cats and other dogs.

ANIMAL HANDLER. Any Person employed by the City, assigned to AACC and charged by the Mayor to humanely receive, inspect, feed, clean and care for Animals Impounded at AACC, to assist the public and Rescue Groups in viewing and selecting Companion Animals and to perform other duties as assigned by the Mayor.

ANIMAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN or VET TECH. Any Person employed by the City, assigned to AACC and charged by the Mayor to assist the AACC Veterinarian.

ANIMAL POSSESSION LIMITS. The number of Animals allowable at one Household without generating the need for a Multiple Animal Site Permit.

ANIMAL SERVICE PROVIDER. Any Establishment that takes temporary possession of an Animal from the Owner, not on the Owner’s property, to perform a service for the Animal or Owner, including, but not limited to, Grooming Parlors, Animal Day Care establishments and Boarding Kennels, but excluding Pet Stores. Animal Service Provider does not include a licensed Veterinarian.

ANIMAL SHELTER. A pound, lot, premises or building maintained by the City or a private organization, for the care and custody of animals.

ANTI-RABIES VACCINATION. Inoculation with an anti-rabies vaccine recognized and approved by the State of New Mexico and given in an amount sufficient to provide immunity from rabies for a minimum of one year.

AT LARGE. An Animal, on or off the Owner's premises, that is not contained by a Secure Fence, a Secure Facility, a Secure Enclosure, secured in the back of a pickup truck, inside a vehicle with proper ventilation or restrained on a leash no longer than eight feet held by a responsible Person capable of controlling the Animal. Verbal commands do not constitute control of an Animal. An At Large Animal is in violation of the leash law.

BAIT ANIMAL. An Animal used to train or condition other Animals to fight and includes, but is not limited to, living dogs, cats and rabbits exposed to attack by other dogs used or trained to be used in dog fighting or to make the attacking Animal more confident and Aggressive.

BASIC GROOMING. Examination, attention and acts reasonably necessary to maintain the eyes, ears, beaks, hooves, feet, coat and skin of an Animal in healthy condition. Basic Grooming also obligates an Owner to provide any and all materials an Animal requires for self-grooming. Basic Grooming does not include acts to maintain appearance only.

BASIC MEDICAL CARE. Reasonable medical care required by the species, including, but not limited to, periodic examinations by a Veterinarian, prompt Veterinary care when required, age and species appropriate Vaccinations, Basic Grooming and internal and external Parasite Control where appropriate.

BITE. A puncture or tear of the skin inflicted by the teeth of a Companion Animal.

BOARDING KENNEL. An Establishment where Animals are housed overnight for the benefit of the Owner but does not include Guard Dog Sites, state inspected Veterinary hospitals, Pet Stores, or Zoos.

BONA FIDE ANIMAL SHOW. An exhibition approved by the Mayor of Companion Animals, Companion Birds or Horses in competition for prizes or awards that does not include sales or fighting.

CAGE. A structure for confining birds or animals, enclosed on at least one side by a grating of wires or bars that lets in air and light.

CHAIN. A chain, tether or other device used to restrain an animal when the Animal is not accompanied by a Person.

CHAINING OR TETHERING. Confining an Animal when unattended by an individual with a tether, rope, chain, or other device to a doghouse, stake, tree, structure or other stationary object.

CHEMICAL RESTRAINT DRUG. Any drug administered to a Companion Animal prior to Euthanasia to reduce aggressiveness, excessive mobility or stress to the Companion Animal including, but not limited to, ketamine, xylazine, and acepromazine.

CLERICAL WORKER. Any Person employed by the City, assigned to AACC and charged by the Mayor to provide Adoption services to the public, answer telephones, enter data or perform other duties as assigned by the Mayor.

COCKFIGHT OR COCKFIGHTING. A fight arranged by a Person involving one or more birds and that has the purpose or probable result of one bird inflicting injury on or killing another bird.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY. Any property not zoned for dwelling units under the Comprehensive City Zoning Code. A vehicle or other temporary mobile facility used for the purpose of doing business concerning or involving Animals shall also be deemed Commercial Property for the purposes of this ordinance.

COMPANION ANIMAL. A dog or cat that is not a Hybrid.

COMPANION BIRD. A bird commonly kept as a pet by humans and confined on the property of the Owner, including, but not limited to, parakeets, canaries, lovebirds, finches, parrots, macaws, cockatoos, cockatiels, toucans and lories, but excluding:

(1) all of the family Anatidae (waterfowl);

(2) all of the family Tetraonidae (grouse and ptarmigans);

(3) all of the family Phasianidae (quail, partridges and pheasants);

(4) all of the family Meleagridae (wild turkeys) except for the domestic strains of turkeys;

(5) all of the family Perdicidae (francolins);

(6) all of the family Gruidae (cranes);

(7) all of the family Rallidae (rails, coots and gallinules);

(8) all of the family Charadriidae (plovers, turnstones and surfbirds);

(9) all of the family Scolopacidae (shorebirds, snipe, sandpipers and curlews);

(10) all of the family Recurvirostridae (avocets and stilts);

(11) all of the family Phalaropodidae (phalaropes);

(12) all of the family Columbidae (wild pigeons and doves) except for the domestic strains of pigeons; and

(13) ducks, geese, chickens and other poultry.

CONFISCATE. A City official has Seized an Animal with the intent and purpose to divest the Owner of all interest in the Animal and following the procedures set forth in this ordinance, to convey all rights, ownership and interests in the Animal to the City of Albuquerque for the benefit of the Animal and the public.

CONSTRUCTIVE POSSESSION. The exercise of dominion and control over the location and treatment of property without taking physical possession of the property.

CRATE. A device or structure designed for the temporary confinement of an Animal.

CRUELTY. A Person intentionally killing an Animal without Lawful Justification or mistreating, injuring, maiming, disfiguring, tormenting, torturing, beating, mutilating, burning, scalding, poisoning, attempting to poison or otherwise unnecessarily causing an Animal to suffer physical or emotional harm. Any of the following is a separate act of Cruelty: failing to provide necessary sustenance to an Animal under that Person's Custody or control, failing to provide Adequate Shelter, failing to provide Potable Water, failing to provide palatable, nutritious food of adequate quantity, taunting an Animal, dyeing, or artificially coloring an Animal under the age of 12 weeks, transporting an Animal in an open vehicle without proper restraints, leaving an Animal in a vehicle when the temperature is such that it could cause pain or suffering to the Animal. Abandonment or Neglect of an Animal is Cruelty. Inaction of the Owner toward an Animal in need of Basic or Emergency Medical Care is Cruelty. Surgery by a Veterinarian is not Cruelty but ear cropping, de-barking, tail docking or Alteration by an individual who is not a Veterinarian is Cruelty. Euthanasia by a Veterinarian or a Euthanasia Qualified Employee of AACC shall not be deemed Cruelty provided it is carried out by methods specified in this ordinance or by other generally accepted methods. The application of pesticides or rodenticides by a properly licensed professional is not Cruelty.

CUSTODY. The possession, control over and responsibility for an Animal by a Person who may or may not be the Owner.

DEA. Drug Enforcement Agency.

DIRECTOR. The Director of the Environmental Health Department of the City.

DISPLAY. Any exhibition, act, circus, ride, trade show, carnival, parade, race, photographic opportunity, performance or similar undertaking in which Animals are required to perform or participate for the intended amusement or benefit of an audience.

DOGGIE DAY CARE. An Establishment that takes temporary possession of an Animal to provide safety, comfort and socialization for the Animal.

DOMESTIC ABUSE BOARDING. A program at AACC where Animals owned by a victim of a Domestic Abuse Situation may obtain temporary housing at AACC.

DOMESTIC ABUSE SITUATION. Any situation defined in the Crimes Against Household Members Act, §§30-3-10 NMSA 1978, et seq.

DOMESTIC ANIMAL. Any Animal whose psychology has been determined or manipulated through selective breeding and which does not occur naturally in the wild and includes, but is not limited to, ferrets, gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters, horses, mice, rabbits, donkeys, rats and kangaroo rats. All Companion Animals are Domestic Animals but all Domestic Animals are not Companion Animals.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE. The care required in response to a traumatic injury or rapidly evolving health crisis concerning an Animal.

ENVIRONMENTAL ENRICHMENT. Safe products appropriate for the species that will stimulate mental, physical and grooming activities for Animals.

ESTABLISHMENT. A place of business in a zone other than a Residential Zone together with its grounds and equipment.

ESTRUS. The regularly recurring state rendering a female Animal capable of accepting the male Animal for breeding and conception.

EUTHANASIA. The killing of an Animal in a manner commonly recognized as humane and acceptable by local Veterinarians or HSUS. Intra-cardiac shots are absolutely prohibited as a form of Euthanasia at AACC.

EUTHANASIA AUTHORIZED. Employees of AACC who have met the necessary training requirements to perform Euthanasia and have been authorized by the Person In Charge to humanely destroy the life of an Animal.

EUTHANASIA QUALIFIED EMPLOYEE. An AACC employee who is trained and certified by HSUS to be qualified to perform Euthanasia and approved by the Mayor to perform Euthanasia at City facilities.

EUTHANASIA ROOM. A separate room at AACC facilities used to perform Euthanasia and for no other purpose and which meets all the requirements set forth in this ordinance.

EXOTIC OR WILD ANIMALS. Those species of Animals that are exotic to humans. Exotic Animals include, but are not limited to, any or all of the following orders and families, whether bred in the wild or in captivity, and any or all hybrids. The Animals listed in parentheses are intended to act as examples and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list or limit the generality of each group of Animals, unless otherwise specified:

A. Class Mammalia

(1) Order Artiodactyla (hippopotamuses, giraffes, camels, deer, not cattle or swine or sheep or goats)

(2) Order Carnivora

(a) Family Felidae (lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, ocelots, servals, not domestic cats)

(b) Family Canidae (wolves, coyotes, foxes, jackals, not domestic dogs)

(c) Family Ursidae (all bears)

(d) Family Mustelidae (weasels, skunks, martens, minks, not ferrets)

(e) Family Procyonidae (raccoons, coatis)

(f) Family Hyaenidae (hyenas)

(g) Family Viverridae (civets, genets, mongooses)

(3) Order Edentatia (anteaters, armadillos, sloths)

(4) Order Marsupialia (opossums, kangaroos, wallabies, not sugar gliders)

(5) Order Perissodactyla (rhinoceroses, tapirs, not horses or donkeys or mules)

(6) Order Primates (lemurs, monkeys, chimpanzees, gorillas)

(7) Order Proboscidae (elephants)

(8) Order Rodentia (squirrels, beavers, porcupines, not guinea pigs, or rats, or mice, or gerbils, or hamsters)

B. Class Reptilia

(1) Order Squamata

(a) Family Varanidae (only water monitors and crocodile monitors)

(b) Family Iguanaidae (only green iguanas and rock iguanas)

(c) Family Boidae (all species whose adult length has the potential to exceed eight feet in length)

(d) Family Colubridae (only boomslangs and African twig snakes)

(e) Family Elapidae (coral snakes, cobras, mambas) - All species

(f) Family Nactricidae (only keelback snakes)

(g) Family Viperidae (copperheads, cottonmouths, rattlesnakes) - All species

(2) Order Crocodilia (crocodiles, alligators, caimans, gavials) - All species

(3) Order Cetacea (whales, dolphins, porpoises)

(4) Order Pinnipedia (seals, sea lions, walruses)

EXOTIC OR WILD ANIMAL COLLECTION PERMIT OR EWACP. The Permit allowing a Person to own a Permissible Exotic or Wild Animal within the Albuquerque City Limits.

EXTREME CRUELTY. A Person is guilty of Extreme Cruelty to Animals if a Person intentionally or maliciously tortures, mutilates, injures or kills an Animal, or if a Person poisons an Animal. Extreme Animal Cruelty is governed by §§ 30-18-1 NMSA 1978 et seq. and is a Fourth Degree Felony, punishable by a fine up to $5000 and 18 months imprisonment.

FACILITY-WIDE CONTAGION. The presence of any disease at AACC which could be passed from one Animal to another or to humans to a degree not ordinarily found in nature and exacerbated by the close proximity of large numbers of Animals at AACC.

FIGHTING BIRD. A bird that is possessed, reared or trained for use in, or that is actually used in, a Cockfight or any other fight or contest involving Animals.

FIGHTING DOG. A dog that is trained for use in, or that is actually used in a fight with other dogs or any other Animal.

FINDER. Any Person who discovers and temporarily takes possession of a Companion Animal that has been separated from its Owner.

FOSTER. To take temporary Custody of any Animal with the approval of or at the request of AACC to administer veterinary care, groom, train, provide special feeding, care for or otherwise provide for the Animal.

FOSTER CARE PROVIDER. Any Person who fosters an Animal from or through AACC to lend aid and comfort and to otherwise assist in making the Animal Adoptable or, in the case of Domestic Abuse Boarding, to provide a safe, homelike environment to minimize the negative effects on the Animal of being separated from its family.

FOUND COMPANION ANIMAL. A Stray Animal that is temporarily possessed by a Person who has registered with AACC to hold the Animal for Reclaim by the Owner or subsequent disposition as provided in this ordinance.

GAFF. An artificial steel spur designed for attachment to the leg of a Fighting Bird.

GROOMING PARLOR. An Establishment that is maintained in whole or in part for the purposes of performing cosmetological services for Animals.

GUARD DOG. A dog that is used to protect a Guard Dog Site.

GUARD DOG SITE. An Establishment that utilizes a Guard Dog.

GUARD DOG SITE PERMIT OR GDSP. The Permit required for a Guard Dog Site.

HARNESS. With respect to a dog, a properly fitting apparatus that is not abrasive and that restrains the dog by the body and shoulders without the involvement of the neck. With respect to a cat, a properly fitting apparatus that is not abrasive featuring adjustable collar buckles around the neck that are joined to an adjustable girth.

HEALTHY. That an Animal is free from disease and not suffering from any objectively observable illness.

HOUSEHOLD. A human social or family unit comprised of Persons living, residing and domiciled in the same residence.

HSUS. The Humane Society of the United States or its successor entities.

HYBRID. An Animal created by breeding Animals of different species. Dogs, wolves and coyotes are different species for purposes of this definition.

IDENTIFIED. A Companion Animal that has an affixed License Tag, Microchip, Tattoo or other indication of the Owner sufficient for AACC or any other Person to contact the Owner or is known to an ASO or other AACC employee.

ILLNESS. A malady, injury, impairment, or physical/mental condition that requires veterinary care.

IMPOUND. Receipt of an Animal by AACC for processing as provided in this ordinance.

INDEPENDENT OBSERVER. A Person who evaluates a dog for Aggressive behavior without knowing about the conclusions or observations of another Person who has also evaluated the dog. Independent Observer shall also mean a Person who evaluates a dog with no predisposition or prejudice concerning the dog and who is free from influence by any third Person desiring any certain outcome of the assessment.

INJURED. The condition of an Animal's being harmed, disabled or impaired in a physical sense which is determined by the reasonable objective observation of wounds, injured limbs, broken bones, or disfiguring lacerations.

INTACT. A dog or a cat over six months old that has not been Altered.

INTACT COMPANION ANIMAL PERMIT OR ICAP. The annual Permit issued to the Owner of a Companion Animal that has not been Altered.

INTACT COMPANION ANIMAL SITE. Any residence, building or other structure in a Residential Zone that is used in whole or in part to house or keep an Intact Animal.

INTAKE AREA. The area set aside at each AACC facility where Animals are dropped off by the public, Surrendered by the Owner, or brought in by Animal Service Officers or other public safety personnel.

INTAKE DAY. The first day of arrival of an Animal at AACC during which time the Animal goes through the Intake Process.

INTAKE PROCESS. The procedure for receiving, documenting, photographing, physically examining, vaccinating, de-worming and applying parasite prevention to Animals that arrive at AACC, and includes all activities between the time of arrival and the time the Animal is put in the Enclosure where it will be housed while at AACC.

INTENT TO ADOPT. A document filed with AACC indicating that a Qualified Adopter wants to Adopt a Companion Animal not currently available for Adoption.

LAWFUL JUSTIFICATION. A strictly construed defense to a charge of Cruelty based on an immediate need to defend a threatened Person or Animal from an imminent attack by an Animal apparently capable of causing death or serious bodily injury to the threatened individual or Animal.

LEASH LAW. Animals, other than wild animals not owned by any human, must be restricted at all times by either a Secure Fence, a Secure Facility, a Secure Enclosure, secured in the back of a pickup truck, inside a vehicle with proper ventilation, or be on a leash no longer than 8 feet long accompanied by a person able to control the Animal.

LETHAL DRUG. A chemical that causes the humane death of an Animal and that is approved by the AACC Veterinarian and the Mayor.

LICENSE. An Albuquerque Companion Animal License.

LICENSE TAG. The tag supplied by AACC or its agents that contains the number of an Albuquerque Companion Animal License.

LITTER. One or more sibling offspring Companion Animal under six months old.

LITTER PERMIT. Permit required when an Animal becomes pregnant.

LITTER SURRENDER AGREEMENT. An agreement between the Mayor or his or her designated representative(s) and the Owner of a Litter.

LIVE HUMANE TRAP. Any device designed to catch and restrict an Animal without causing any harm to the Animal.

LIVESTOCK. Livestock as defined in the State Livestock Code and shall include, but not be limited to, bison, buffalo, cattle, horses, donkeys, mules, chickens, ducks, poultry, llamas, ostriches, emus, rheas, camelids (camels), farmed cervidae, swine, sheep or goats.

LOST AND FOUND PROGRAM. An AACC program that focuses on reuniting lost Animals with their Owners.

LOW INCOME PERSON. (1) a Person who possesses (a) an EBT card issued by the State of New Mexico for Food Stamps, (b) either the annual letter of statement of benefits or monthly benefit card for Supplemental Security Income, (c) an EBT card issued by the State of New Mexico for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, or (d) a Medicaid health benefit card or (2) a Person (a) whose income is 50% or less of the median gross income for the City adjusted for family size, as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or by figures obtainable from the Family and Community Services Department of the City of Albuquerque or its successor agencies, and (b) who signs and submits an affidavit to AACC swearing that his or her income is 50% or less of the median gross income for the City, adjusted for family size.

MAYOR. The Mayor of the City of Albuquerque or his or her designee.

MEDICAL WAIVER CERTIFICATE. A document written by a Veterinarian stating why a Companion Animal should not be altered. Used in cases when Alteration would pose a substantial threat to the health of the Animal.

MICROCHIP. A passive transponder which can be implanted in an Animal by injection and which is a component of a radio frequency identification (RFID) system, but excluding any system that is not compatible with the scanner used by AACC.

MODERATE INCOME PERSON. Any Person (1) whose income is 80% or less of the median gross income for the City adjusted for family size, as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or by figures obtainable from the Family and Community Services Department of the City or its successor agencies, and (2) who signs and submits an affidavit to AACC swearing that his or her income is 80% or less of the median gross income for the City, adjusted for family size.

MULTIPLE COMPANION ANIMAL SITE OR MCAS. Property in a Residential Zone upon which, by virtue of a Permit, the Owner is allowed to exceed the authorized Companion Animal number limits authorized by this ordinance.

MULTIPLE COMPANION ANIMAL SITE PERMIT OR MCASP. The Permit required to operate a Multiple Companion Animal Site.

NEGLECT. The failure of an Owner to provide care for an Animal in the Owner’s Custody which failure causes an Animal to suffer physical or emotional harm.

NIGHTTIME. The period starting at 10:01 p.m. and ending at 7:00 a.m. the following day.

OWNER. A Person who possesses an Animal and claims a legally valid right of possession of an Animal superior to the rest of the world. Under this ordinance, any Person acting as the agent of the Owner and any Person over the age of 18 in a Household and left in charge of an Animal may be deemed the Owner.

OWNER SURRENDER. The relinquishment by the Owner of all rights in and to an Animal to AACC.

OWNER SURRENDER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM. The AACC form that an Owner executes in order to relinquish an Animal to AACC.

PARASITE CONTROL. Eradication of pests such as insects, ticks, fleas, worms, and other organisms living or seeking to live in or on an Animal. Reasonable Parasite Control measures must be employed to eradicate parasites from all areas an Animal has access to and from the body of the Animal.

PERMANENT IDENTIFICATION. Companion dogs and cats required to have a permanent, easily detectable, identification number applied by a Veterinarian by means of a Microchip or Tattoo.

PERMISSIBLE EXOTIC OR WILD ANIMALS. Exotic or Wild Animals, the Ownership of which does not violate state or federal law.

PERMIT. A document evidencing approval by the Mayor to conduct a certain activity or possess a certain Animal.

PERMIT HOLDER. A qualified person to whom a valid permit has been provided.

PERMITTED PREMISES. The Establishment, residence, real property or other site for which a valid Permit has been issued.

PERSON. An individual, firm, partnership, corporation, company, society, association or legal entity, and every officer, agent or employee thereof.

PERSON IN CHARGE. The individual present or individual in apparent supervision or control of a premise.

PET STORE. An Establishment that, in whole or in part, offers Animals , other than Companion Animals, for sale or resale, or sells Animals to consumers or wholesalers.

PET STORE PERMIT OR PSP. A Pet Store Permit for Pet Stores that do not sell Companion Animals.

POLICE OFFICER. Any sworn member of the Albuquerque Police Department or any sworn officer of any other law enforcement agency authorized and empowered to enforce or execute laws in the City.

POSSESSION. Custody of an Animal.

POTABLE WATER. Water that is safe for drinking.

POULTRY. Any bird that is kept as a pet or any bird that is commonly used by humans for eggs or meat. Companion Birds are not considered Poultry in this ordinance.

PROHIBITED EXOTIC OR WILD ANIMALS. Any Exotic or Wild Animal that is unlawful to own, possess, keep, harbor, bring into the city, have in one's possession or allow to breed under federal or state law.

PROOF OF OWNERSHIP. Any documentation or evidence which proves to the satisfaction of the Mayor that a Person is the Owner of an Animal, including, but not limited to, an Albuquerque Companion Animal License, Microchip identification, Veterinarian invoice, official registration, or photographs of the Animal.

PROTECTIVE CUSTODY. The temporary control over and care of an Animal at AACC.

PROVOKED. The response of an Animal that a reasonable Person believes the Animal has taken to defend itself, its Owner or family member, or another Person within its immediate vicinity from assault, actual or perceived, or to defend real property belonging to its Owner or family member.

QUALIFIED ADOPTER. A Person who is 18 years of age or older, who has never been convicted of any form of Cruelty under any law and in addition has not been convicted two or more times for any violation of this ordinance or its predecessor ordinances, has never had any Animal-related Permit Revoked or Suspended, has never failed to Reclaim an Animal from AACC, has not Surrendered an Animal within one year of the time of Adoption and has never been convicted of child or domestic abuse.

QUARANTINE. The segregation of an Animal for any time as required under state law or this ordinance in order to control the spread of rabies or contagious illness.

RABIES VACCINATION. Inoculation with an anti-rabies vaccine recognized and approved by the State of New Mexico and given in an amount sufficient to provide immunity from rabies for a minimum of one year.

RECLAIM. An Owner's recovery of an Animal that has been Impounded at AACC.

REHABILITATORS. Individuals who provide professional care to sick, injured, and orphaned wild animals so they can ultimately be returned to their natural habitats. Such rehabilitation is not an attempt to turn wild animals into pets. Patients are held in captivity only until they are able to live independently in the wild.

RESCUE GROUP OR RESCUE INDIVIDUAL. Those groups or individuals approved by the Mayor for the purpose of Adopting Animals from AACC at a reduced rate to provide needed medical, grooming, behavioral or rehabilitative services in order to facilitate successful Adoptions of Animals.

RESERVE ANIMAL SERVICE OFFICER OR RESERVE ASO. Any Person who volunteers without compensation to assist ASOs in the field.

RESIDENTIAL ZONE. “Zone, Residential” as defined in the city's Comprehensive Zoning Code.

RETURN BY ADOPTER. That an Animal has been returned to AACC within thirty days of Adoption.

SAFE HAVEN. The period of time when an Animal is exempt from Euthanasia.

SANCTUARY. Areas protected through the management of human activities to provide and maintain habitat, other wildlife, and the ecosystems that support them. Inclusions: National Wildlife Areas, Migratory Bird Sanctuaries, Conservation Areas and Marine Protected Areas.

SECURE ENCLOSURE. Cage or box, that may be portable, from which an Animal is not able to escape or be invaded.

SECURE FENCE. A visible protective or confining barrier that prevents any Animal, including Guard Dogs, from escaping the property on which the Animal is being restricted. The Secure Fence shall also reasonably protect the Animal within the fence from other Animals or people coming into contact with the restrained Animal. This includes a dog run type structure.

SECURE FACILITY. A house or building in which an Animal is being restricted that will prevent the Animal, including a Guard Dog, from being able to escape.

SEIZE. To take Custody of an Animal with or without notice to the Owner or the consent of the Owner. Exigent circumstances must exist if an Animal is taken into Custody without notice to the Owner or the consent of the Owner.

SENIORS. Persons 65 years of age or older.

SERVICE ANIMAL. A dog trained or being trained by a recognized school for training dogs to assist Persons with disabilities; an Animal recognized as a Service Animal pursuant to the American with Disabilities Act of 1990; or any other Animal approved by the Governor’s Committee on Disability as acceptable in public places and trained to provide some special assistance to a Person with a disability.

SEVERE MEDICAL CONDITION. A condition that results in an Animal requiring, permanently or for an extended period, a high level of constant care to maintain comfort, sustain life, or attend to a bodily function that the Animal cannot manage itself.

SLASHER. A steel weapon resembling a curved knife blade designed for attachment to the foot of a Fighting Bird.

SPRING LOADED TRAP. Any device used to capture an Animal by the leg or any extremity by closing on the Animal by the action of a spring or any other mechanism designed to hold, immobilize or otherwise automatically detain an Animal for any purpose. The City does not consider this to be a humane trap.

STAFFING LEVELS FOR ANIMAL CARETAKING. The minimum number of kennel staff that must be available at AACC according to the Animal population at AACC as set forth in the October 2000 HSUS Report to the Albuquerque Animal Services Division under the heading titled "Staffing Levels for Animal Caretaking" at page 96 of said report and the minimum number of ASOs that must be available according to the HSUS Report at page 159.

STRAY. An Animal that is At Large.

SURRENDER. The relinquishment of Ownership of an Animal to AACC by the Owner of the Animal.

TATTOO. An indelible mark placed on an Animal to serve as Permanent Identification.

TIME. Days spent at AACC.

TREATABLE ILLNESS. An illness, injury, impairment, or physical/mental condition that can be reasonably treated using proper medication.

TROLLEY. A cable strung between two fixed and stable points, to which a dog on a short lead is attached, allowing for freedom of movement.

TROLLEY PERMIT. A permit issued by the City authorizing the use of a Trolley. In order to obtain a Trolley Permit, the applicant must prove that all other means of restricting the Animal to the personal property have been exhausted.

UNIDENTIFIED. An animal that has no identification sufficient to allow AACC to determine the Owner’s identity.

USDA. The United States Department of Agriculture or its successor.

VACCINATION OR VACCINATE. Administer a vaccine to an Animal, including, but not limited to, rabies, distemper, parvo, para influenza, corona virus or bordatella and other vaccines deemed necessary from time to time by the Mayor.

VERMIN. Wild rodents and various insects including flies, mosquitoes, ants and wasps.

VETERINARIAN. A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine licensed to practice in the State of New Mexico.

VETERINARY EMERGENCY CLINIC OR VEC. Any entity which contracts with the city for Veterinarian services.

VOLUNTEER. Any Person who performs any Animal services function or assists any AACC employee without compensation.

VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR. A person employed by the city, of at least class M-14, assigned to AACC for the purpose of recruiting and maintaining a cadre of highly committed volunteers.

WOLF HYBRID. The offspring of a domesticated dog that has been bred with a wolf.

WORKING DAYS. The days AACC is open to the public.

ZOO. The Rio Grande Zoological Park and others zoos accredited by the American Zoological Association.

§ 9-2-1-5 ADMINISTRATION.

Rules and Regulations. Reasonable rules and regulations may be prescribed by the Mayor to carry out the intent and purpose of this ordinance, pursuant to standards created by this ordinance.

§ 9-2-1-6 PERJURY.

It is unlawful for any person to make any false affidavit, or knowingly swear or affirm falsely to any document, matter or thing required to be sworn to or affirmed by the terms of this ordinance.

§ 9-2-1-7 NO PRIVATE CAUSE OF ACTION.

Nothing in this Ordinance is intended to create a private cause of action.

§ 9-2-1-8 EXEMPTION FOR ZOO AND AQUARIUM.

Nothing in this Ordinance shall apply to the employees of the Albuquerque Aquarium or the Rio Grande Zoo while acting within the scope of their employment and consistent with accepted zoological practices.

PART 2: CARE, MAINTENANCE, HOUSING, RESTRAINT AND TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS .

Any person who violates a provision of this ordinance shall be deemed guilty of a petty misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to the penalty provisions set forth in § 1-1-99 ROA 1994. Every violation of this ordinance shall be a separate misdemeanor. Every day this ordinance is violated shall be considered a separate offense. Upon receipt of a citation, the person cited must appear in court.

The Owners of less common and Permissible Exotic or Wild Animals are responsible for knowing and meeting the specific needs of the Animals in their care. Ignorance of these needs will not be a defense against prosecution for failure to provide proper care, maintenance and housing.

§ 9-2-2-1 REQUIRED CARE AND MAINTENANCE FOR MAMMALS AND BIRDS KEPT ON RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY.

(A) Food and Water.

(1) Food. Mammals and birds shall be provided with uncontaminated, edible, nutritious food, which is of adequate quantity as to maintain the normal weight and condition of a healthy Animal. Additionally the amount of food administered must properly conform to the individual Animal's age and condition.

(2) Water. Mammals and birds shall be provided with constant access to a supply of Potable Water in sufficient amount as to maintain good health as required by the species whether Animals are outdoors or indoors.

(B) Medical Treatment.

(1) Mammal and bird Owners shall provide regular Basic Medical Care and Emergency Medical Care as defined in this ordinance for all their Animals.

• (2) No Animal should ever be allowed to suffer due to lack of medical care.

(3) Owners of Companion Animals or ferrets over three months of age shall have the Companion Animals and ferrets Vaccinated against rabies no less frequently than required under state law.

(C) Required Alteration of Companion Animals. All dogs and cats over the age of six months shall be Altered by a Veterinarian except as provided herein.

(1) Owners of Companion Animals may seek an exemption from this regulation if Alteration would be dangerous for the Companion Animal due to advanced age or health issues. The Mayor may grant this exemption if the Owner of the Animal can provide proof in the form of a letter from a Veterinarian stating such reasons.

(2) Owners of Companion Animals may buy an Intact Animal Permit for up to four Animals per residence as an exemption to this regulation.

(D) Female Animals in Estrus. While a female Companion Animal is in Estrus, such Animal shall be isolated and protected from interaction with Intact male Companion Animals of the same species unless breeding is intended consistent with the requirements of this ordinance. (E) Basic Grooming. All Animals shall be groomed in accordance with the definition of Basic Grooming as applicable to the species. Basic Grooming is necessary to maintain the eyes, ears, beaks, hooves, feet and skin of an Animal in healthy condition. Basic Grooming ensures that the toenails or hooves are not so long as to cause the Animal not to be able to move normally or to cause pain to the Animal. Basic Grooming also includes the Owner providing an Animal with whatever the Animal needs for self-grooming. Grooming the coat on most Animals is necessary to insure the coat is not matted to the point that it becomes so heavy as to cause skin irritation or trap fecal matter. The Animal shall not be so dirty as to provide a home for parasites and insects. No Animal shall be allowed to have foreign objects imbedded in its skin, fur or hair other than the required Microchip for Companion Animals.

(F) Environmental Enrichment. Owners shall provide safe products, appropriate for the species, that will stimulate mental, physical and grooming activities.

(G) Permanent Identification. All Companion Animals shall be Permanently Identified by a Microchip or Tattoo. Microchipping shall be available for free at AACC for Low Income Persons and Seniors. It is the Owner’s responsibility to contact AACC for information regarding using a Tattoo as a Permanent Identification.

§ 9-2-2-2 HOUSING AND RESTRAINT STANDARDS FOR MAMMALS AND BIRDS KEPT ON RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY.

(A) Leash Law. All Animals, other than wild Animals not owned by any human, must be restricted at all times by either a Secure Fence, a Secure Facility, a Secure Enclosure, secured in the back of a pickup truck, inside a vehicle with proper ventilation, or be on a leash no longer than 8 feet long accompanied by a person able to control the Animal.

(B) General Standards that apply to both indoor and outdoor locations including Secure Facility and Secure Fence.

(1) Cleanliness. Feces and soiled bedding must be removed at least weekly to prevent odors and possible dangerous or toxic exposure or contamination by fecal material, mold or internal and external parasites that could harm the Animal or cause the spread of disease to other Animals or humans. Premises shall be kept in such a way that no animal has an opportunity to become entangled with loose wire, or get splinters from wooden boards, or come into contact with other yard trash that could harm an Animal.

(2) Hazards. All areas where Animals are kept shall be maintained in a manner that no Animal can accidentally or intentionally come into contact with chemicals or other dangerous substances including, but not limited to, antifreeze that could potentially poison an Animal.

(3) Exposure to insects and parasites. Areas where the Animal will be spending time shall be maintained to minimize the Animal's exposure to fleas, ticks, flies, mosquitoes, ants, wasps, bees, maggots or other insects that could potentially cause the Animal harm or discomfort.

(C) Indoor - Secure Facility.

(1) Companion Animals kept in Cages or Crates indoors must be kept in a Crate, Cage or enclosure larger than that required for Boarding Kennels, Pet Stores and Animal Shelters in § 9-2-2-4 of this ordinance.

(2) Companion Birds kept in Cages must have enough room to spread their wings and have at least 2 perches of different diameters available to them.

(3) Other Animals kept indoors in Cages, Crates or other enclosures must be provided with adequate space to prevent overcrowding and to allow the Animals to maintain normal exercise levels required by the size, temperament and type of Animal.

(D) Outdoor - Secure Fence.

(1) Space Requirement. When Animals are outdoors restricted by a Secure Fence they must be provided with adequate space to prevent overcrowding and to allow the Animals to maintain normal exercise levels required by the size, temperament and type of Animal.

(2) Adequate Shelter and shade. Animals that are not allowed free access to the Household must be provided with Adequate Shelter and shade. A structure that provides Adequate Shelter might not provide adequate shade: for example, a doghouse that protects the dog from wind and rain may be too hot inside when exposed to direct sunlight during the warmer months so shade must also be provided. Outside housing shall protect Animals from any extreme weather conditions that may be detrimental to the health or comfort of the Animals.

(3) Chaining, when not accompanied by a Person.

(a) Chaining is prohibited as a means of outdoor confinement for more than one hour during any twenty-four hour period.

(b) No Chain shall weigh more than 1/8 of the Animal’s weight.

(c) The Chain must be affixed to the Animal by the use of a non-abrasive, well-fitted harness.

(d) The Chain must be at least 12 feet long and fastened so the Animal can sit, walk, and lie down using natural motions.

(e) The Chain must be unobstructed by objects that may cause the Chain or the Animal to become entangled.

(f) The Chain shall have a swivel on both ends.

(g) The Chained Animal shall be surrounded by a barrier sufficient to protect the Chained Animal from At Large Animals. The barrier shall be sufficient to prevent children from accidentally coming into contact with the Chained Animal.

(4) Trolley. A person may apply for a Trolley Permit as a means of restricting an Animal to one's property. Trolleys shall be used for no longer than nine hours in a twenty-four hour period. The animal attached to a Trolley shall be surrounded by a barrier sufficient to protect the Animal from At Large animals. The barrier shall be sufficient to prevent children from accidentally coming into contact with the chained animal. To use a Trolley, the Owner must have a valid Trolley Permit.

(5) Crates. The use of a Crate is prohibited as a means of outdoor confinement for the purpose of circumventing the Secure Fence requirement or the Chaining prohibition of this ordinance.

(6) Cages and other enclosures. Companion Birds kept in Cages must have enough room to spread their wings and have at least 2 perches of different diameters available to them. Other outdoor enclosures must provide the basic needs, including shade, as stated in this ordinance.

§ 9-2-2-3 REQUIRED CARE AND MAINTENANCE FOR MAMMALS AND BIRDS KEPT AT BOARDING KENNELS, GUARD DOG SITES, ANIMAL SHELTERS INCLUDING THE ALBUQUERQUE ANIMAL CARE CENTER AND PET STORES (Non-residential sites). Pet Stores are not allowed to sell dogs or cats.

Facilities must have an adequate number of employees on duty to maintain the care and maintenance standards in this ordinance. Each Animal shall be observed daily by the Person in Charge.

(A) Food and Water.

(1) Food. Mammals and birds shall be provided with uncontaminated, edible, nutritious food, which is of adequate quantity as to maintain the normal weight and condition of a healthy Animal. Additionally, the amount of food administered and feeding times must properly conform to the individual Animal's age and condition. Food should be stored in a rodent proof and insect proof container. Open food must be kept in covered, washable containers. Refrigeration shall be available and used for partially consumed cans of food. Food and water dishes must not be made of plastic and must be washed after every meal. There should be a designated area available to wash dishes with hot water and the appropriate disinfectant.

(2) Water. Mammals and birds shall be provided with constant access to a supply of Potable Water in sufficient amount as to maintain good health as required by the species whether the Animal is outdoors or indoors.

(B) Medical Treatment.

• (1) Boarding Kennels.

(a) The services of a locally available Veterinarian must be retained and his or her name must be listed on the application for the Animal Service Provider Permit. AACC must be notified if a change in Veterinary services occurs. If there is a medical problem with an Animal and the Owner's Veterinarian is not available, the Veterinarian listed for the kennel shall be contacted as soon as possible.

(b) Sick Animals should be placed in their own enclosures and given medical attention immediately.

(c) No Animal should ever be allowed to suffer due to lack of medical care.

(2) Animal Shelters including AACC.

(a) Veterinary Services shall be available to Animals in shelters 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. AACC shall employ at least 2 full time Veterinarians and contract with or employ additional staff to meet the requirements of this ordinance.

(b) Sick Animals should be placed in their own enclosures and given medical attention immediately.

(c) No Animal should ever be allowed to suffer due to lack of medical care.

(3) Pet Stores.

(a) The services of a locally available Veterinarian must be retained and his or her name must be listed on the application for the Animal Service Provider Permit. AACC must be notified if a change in Veterinary services occurs. The listed Veterinarian shall be used whenever there is a health concern.

(b) Sick Animals should be placed in their own enclosures and given medical attention.

(c) No Animal should ever be allowed to suffer due to lack of medical care. (4) Guard Dog Sites. (a) Both the Owner of the Guard Dog and the owner of the Guard Dog Site must retain the services of a locally available Veterinarian and his or her name must be listed on the application for the Guard Dog Site Permit. AACC must be notified if a change in Veterinary services occurs. The listed Veterinarian shall be used whenever there is a health concern. (b) Sick Animals should be placed in their own enclosures and given medical attention. (c) No Animal should ever be allowed to suffer due to lack of medical care.

(C) Required Alteration of Companion Animals. No Companion Animal owned by a person who lives in Bernalillo County or the surrounding counties of Valencia, Sandoval, Cibola, Santa Fe and Torrance shall leave any Animal Shelter including AACC without having been Altered except as provided herein. The foregoing does not apply to a permitted Intact Animal which is not required to be Altered until Impounded twice at AACC or to an Animal whose Alteration would be dangerous due to age or health issues. This provision does not apply to Boarding Kennels and Guard Dog Sites. Intact Animals at Guard Dog Sites must have Intact Animal Permits.

(D) Female Animals in Estrus. While a female Companion Animal is in Estrus, such Animal shall be isolated and protected from interaction with Intact male Companion Animals of the same species unless breeding is intended consistent with the requirements of this ordinance. No breeding is allowed at Guard Dog Sites, Pet Stores or Animal Shelters including AACC.

(E) Basic Grooming. All Animals shall be groomed in accordance with this ordinance as described by the definition of Basic Grooming as applicable to the species. Basic Grooming is necessary to maintain the eyes, ears, beaks, hooves, feet and skin of an Animal in healthy condition. Basic Grooming includes making sure that the toenails or hooves are not so long as to cause the Animal not to be able to move normally or to cause pain to the Animal. Basic grooming also includes providing the Animal with whatever the Animal needs for self-grooming. No Animal shall be allowed to have a coat that is matted to the point that it becomes so heavy as to cause skin irritation or trap fecal matter. The Animal shall not be so dirty as to provide a home for parasites and insects. No Animal shall be allowed to have foreign objects imbedded in its skin, fur or hair other than the required Microchip for Companion Animals. Boarding Kennels are not required to provide Basic Grooming for boarded Animals.

(F) Environmental Enrichment. Mammals and Companion birds kept overnight shall be provided with safe products appropriate for the species that will stimulate mental, physical and grooming activities. Boarding Kennels may waive this requirement. No toy shall be used by more than one Animal. Toys shall not be allowed to get so dirty that the toy could be a health hazard.

(G) Permanent Identification. No Companion Animals shall be allowed to leave any Animal Shelter including AACC without being Microchipped. Boarding Kennels are not responsible for Microchipping.

§ 9-2-2-4 HOUSING AND RESTRAINT STANDARDS FOR MAMMALS AND BIRDS KEPT AT BOARDING KENNELS, GUARD DOG SITES, ANIMAL SHELTERS INCLUDING THE ALBUQUERQUE ANIMAL CARE CENTER (AACC) AND PET STORES (Non-residential sites).

(A) General Housing and Restraint Standards. Housing provided must meet the criteria of a Secure Facility or Secure Fence as defined in this ordinance.

(1) Leash Law. All Animals, other than Wild Animals not owned by any human, must be restricted at all times by either a Secure Fence, a Secure Facility, a Secure Enclosure, secured in the back of a pickup truck, inside a vehicle with proper ventilation, or be on a leash no longer than 8 feet long accompanied by a Person able to control the Animal.

(2) Living quarters for Animals must be waterproof, structurally sound, and have no protrusions that could injure Animals.

(3) Cleanliness. The entire premises shall be kept clean and in good repair in a manner which will protect Animals from disease or injury. Feces and urine must be removed at least twice daily from Companion Animal living quarters to prevent odors and possible dangerous or toxic exposure or contamination by fecal material, mold or internal and external parasites that could harm the Animal or cause the spread of disease to other Animals or humans. After cleaning, cats shall not be returned to their enclosures until the enclosures have air dried. Soiled bedding must be changed daily. If hosing the enclosures, the Animals must be removed and not allowed to come in contact with the dirty, pooled water or wet floors. Animals shall never be squirted with water. Suitable drainage must be provided. There can be no standing water.

(4) Hazards. All areas where Animals are kept shall be maintained in a manner such that no Animal can accidentally or intentionally come into contact with chemicals or other dangerous substances including, but not limited to, antifreeze that could potentially poison an Animal. A room or closet must be available to store cleaning supplies. Cleaning supplies and food cannot be stored together. Provisions shall be made for the timely removal and proper disposal of Animal and food waste, soiled bedding, dead Animals, and debris. Disposal facilities and methodology shall minimize vermin infestation, odors, and disease.

(5) Exposure to insects and parasites. Areas where the Animal will be spending time shall be maintained to minimize the Animal's exposure to fleas, ticks, flies, mosquitoes, ants, wasps, bees, or other insects that could potentially cause the Animal harm or discomfort.

(B) Indoor - Secure Facility.

(1) Minimum floor space and other requirements for cats.

(a) Cats shall have a minimum of four square feet of flat floor space and twenty-two inches of vertical space.

(b) Cats shall always have access to litter. The size of a litter box shall be subtracted when measuring the minimum space required for a cat.

(c) When there is more than one cat in an enclosure, additional floor and vertical space and resting perches are required. This does not include a cat with kittens.

(2) Minimum floor space requirements for dogs.

(a) Dogs weighing less than 30 pounds shall have eight square feet of flat floor space and two feet of vertical space per dog.

(b) Dogs weighing between 30 and 65 pounds shall have 12 square feet of flat floor space and three feet of vertical space per dog.

(c) Dogs that weigh more than 65 pounds shall have 24 square feet of flat floor space and three feet of vertical space per dog.

(3) Minimum requirements for birds.

(a) Birds must have enough room to spread their wings to their full width.

(b) Birds must have at least two perches of different circumferences available to them.

(4) Any other Animals not specifically listed should be provided with adequate space to prevent overcrowding and to allow the Animal to maintain normal exercise levels required by the species, size and temperament of the Animal.

(5) Heating and cooling systems are required if needed to keep the temperature between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. All kennel buildings constructed after the effective date of this ordinance that are not fully and constantly enclosed shall be required to contain radiant floor heat. Existing kennel buildings not fully and constantly enclosed must install radiant floor heat within five years of the effective date of this ordinance. Ventilation must be such that there are no drafts in the winter, odors, or moisture condensation. The general ventilation guideline for the areas in which the Animals are confined is ten to fifteen fresh air changes per hour. All kennel buildings constructed after the effective date of this ordinance shall install ventilation systems that adhere to this guideline. Existing kennel buildings that do not meet this guideline must do so within five years of the effective date of this ordinance.

(6) Ample light must exist so that all areas of the building and Animal enclosures can be easily examined. Any lights in Animal areas should have covers such as protective sleeves for fluorescent bulbs.

(7) Fire suppression equipment and automatic emergency fire suppression devices and systems such as sprinkler systems shall be available and in working order at all times in all areas where Animals are kept. This is especially important whenever Animals are left unattended by humans. Existing facilities have 10 years from the passage of this ordinance to install automatic sprinklers. New facilities must be built to include fire suppression equipment and automatic emergency fire suppression devices and systems such as sprinkler systems.

(C) Outdoor - Secure Fence.

(1) Space Requirements. When Animals are outdoors restricted by a Secure Fence, they must be provided with adequate space to prevent overcrowding and to allow the Animal to maintain normal exercise levels required by the size, temperament and type of Animal.

(2) Adequate Shelter and shade. Animals that are not allowed free access to go inside a building must be provided with Adequate Shelter and shade. A structure that provides Adequate Shelter might not provide adequate shade: for example, a doghouse that protects the dog from wind and rain may be too hot inside when exposed to direct sunlight during the warmer months so shade must also be provided. Outside housing shall protect Animals from any extreme weather conditions that may be detrimental to the health or comfort of the Animals. Suitable drainage must be provided and there can be no standing water.

(3) Chaining. Chaining is prohibited as a means of outdoor confinement in non-residential areas.

(4) Trolley. Trolleys are prohibited as a means of outdoor confinement in non-residential areas.

(5) Crate. Crates are prohibited as a means of outdoor confinement in non-residential areas.

(6) Cages and other stackable kennel enclosures with wire bottoms are prohibited. The exceptions to this are Companion Bird and ferret cages and enclosures with plastic coated mesh floors with holes smaller than one square inch. Rabbit hutches may have a wire bottom no more than one half the floor.

§ 9-2-2-5 STANDARDS FOR GROOMING PARLORS AND DOGGIE DAY CARE FACILITIES.

(A) Indoor and outdoor facilities must meet the definitions of “Secure Facility” and “Secure Fence”. Indoor temporary enclosures for Animals must be structurally sound and have no protrusions that are reasonably likely to injure Animals. Temporary enclosures must be large enough for the Animals to stand up, lie down and stretch out comfortably. Cats shall have access to litter. Ventilation must be such that there are no strong odors. If the outdoor facilities include enclosures for the Animals, they must be waterproof. Outdoor facilities must provide shade from the sun and shelter from rain or snow. Suitable drainage must be provided. There can be no unintentional standing water.

(B) Cleanliness. Feces and urine shall be removed as necessary to prevent the Animals from becoming soiled and to prevent odors but under no circumstances less than twice each day or every time a new Animal is placed in a temporary enclosure. All areas of the premises must be kept clean and in good repair. A room or closet must be available to securely store cleaning supplies. Provisions shall be made for the timely removal and proper disposal of Animal waste and debris. Disposal facilities and methodology shall minimize vermin infestation, odors and disease.

§ 9-2-2-6 TRANSPORTING ANIMALS IN VEHICLES.

When transporting Animals they must be kept safe.

(A) Pickup Trucks. Animals that are transported in the bed of a pickup truck must be humanely restrained or Crated to prevent the possibility of the Animal falling out, protected from extreme temperatures and provided with a non-metal surface to sit or stand on.

(1) Humanely restrained. The Animal must be attached to the truck by means of a Harness, not a neck collar, in a way to insure that the animal cannot jump out of or fall from the truck or be strangled. There must be two fixed point fastening locations at least two feet apart to attach the harness to in order to prevent the Animal from strangling or falling out.

(2) Crate. If an Animal is put in a Crate or other enclosure, the Crate or enclosure must be securely fastened to the bed or sides of the truck so that the Crate or enclosure cannot turn over or fall out.

(3) Protection from weather. No Animal shall be left in the bed of a truck whether in a Crate or not when the weather is such that the Animal will be exposed to extreme heat, cold or rain.

(B) Cars, Vans and RVs. Animals riding inside vehicles that are not in Crates or other enclosures must not be allowed access to a window opened wide enough for the Animal to jump, fly or fall out. Animals left unattended in cars, vans or RVs must have adequate ventilation to prevent the temperature in the vehicle from rising high enough such that any reasonable Person would know that the Animal would suffer from heat exposure. During the warmer months, no amount of ventilation will keep the car from getting too hot. If the Mayor determines that an Animal in a vehicle is in immediate danger, the Mayor may enter the vehicle by whatever means necessary, without being liable to the owner of the vehicle, and seize the Animal.

(C) Transporting more than one Animal. In addition to all other regulations in this ordinance, Animals should never be overcrowded when being transported. If the Animals are Crated or kept in any enclosure, they may be allowed to share a Crate but each Animal should be able to stand up, move around, lie down and stretch out naturally. If Crates or enclosures are stacked, they must be attached securely to prevent the Crates or enclosures from falling or turning over. If Crates or other enclosures are stacked, it is important that no urine or feces are passed between Crates and enclosures.

PART 3: REQUIRED LICENSE AND PERMITS.

§ 9-2-3-1 REQUIRED ALBUQUERQUE COMPANION ANIMAL LICENSE.

(A) Albuquerque Residents. All residents of Albuquerque who own Companion Animals shall have a current annual Albuquerque Companion Animal License for each Companion Animal they own that is over the age of three months.

(B) Non-Resident. Any Person who lives in Bernalillo County or the surrounding counties of Valencia, Cibola, Sandoval, Torrance or Santa Fe and is not a City resident but who keeps a Companion Animal in the city for more than 15 consecutive days or an aggregate of 30 days in any year shall obtain an Albuquerque Companion Animal License.

(C) Companion Animals must have a current Rabies Vaccination and be Microchipped or Permanently Identified before the Owner can be issued a License.

(D) Low Income Persons, Seniors, and Owners of Service Dogs must obtain an annual License for their Companion Animals but are exempt from the annual License fee.

(E) Impounded Companion Animals. Any Person who lives in Bernalillo County or the surrounding counties of Valencia, Cibola, Sandoval, Torrance or Santa Fe who owns a Companion Animal that has been impounded by AACC shall obtain a City License.

(F) License Tags. A License Tag shall be issued with each License.

(1) Any Companion Animal outside the Owner’s real property shall wear a collar or a Harness with a current License Tag and an Anti-Rabies Vaccination Tag attached to the collar or Harness, even if the Companion Animal is Microchipped.

(2) A collar or Harness with the required tags attached may be removed from the Companion Animal temporarily for medical care, training, grooming, or when the Companion Animal is in a Bona Fide Animal Show.

(3) Replacement License tags shall be sold at the AACC at a cost of $4 each.

(G) License fees are not refundable and Licenses are not transferable to any other Companion Animal.

(H) The fee for an Albuquerque Companion Animal License is as stated in § 9-2-3-16 of this ordinance.

(I) The fee for late License renewal shall be a minimum of $10.

§ 9-2-3-2 PERMITS: GENERAL PROVISIONS.

(A) A Permit is not a property right.

(B) The Mayor can refuse to issue, revoke, suspend or modify Permits and impose conditions or limits upon the issuance of Permits, including the declaration of moratoria regarding issuance of Permits.

(C) Permits expire one year from the date of issue, unless otherwise specifically provided in this ordinance.

(D) The Mayor shall charge a reasonable inspection fee for compliance inspections.

(E) Permits are not transferable or refundable.

(F) The Fees for Permits are as stated in § 9-2-3-16 of this ordinance.

§ 9-2-3-3 PERMIT HOLDERS: GENERAL DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS. Permit Holders must comply with all the requirements of this ordinance, state law, and federal law. Additionally, Permit Holders must comply with the following duties and requirements. Any violation by a Permit Holder may result in revocation, suspension or modification of the Permit.

(A) Permit Holders shall meet the standards of a Qualified Adopter.

(B) Permit Holders shall comply with all special requirements pertaining to the type of Permit held.

(C) Inspections.

(1) A permitted Establishment, other than a residence, shall allow entry and inspection of the Permit Holder’s premises by the Mayor. Upon presentation of proper identification, the Mayor shall be allowed to enter any Permitted Establishment for the purpose of making an inspection of the premises for compliance with this ordinance or an inspection to ascertain the existence or nonexistence of conditions dangerous to health or safety or otherwise relevant to the public interest in conformance with the provisions of the Public Health Act, NMSA 1978, 24-1-1 et seq. (2006).

(2) The holder of a Permit pertaining to a permitted activity in a residence may consent to an inspection but also has the right to deny entry for an inspection or schedule the inspection at a convenient time and attempt to prove compliance to the satisfaction of the Mayor by means other than inspection. If the Mayor finds that the Permit Holder is not in compliance, the Permit Holder may request an Administrative Hearing to prove compliance to the satisfaction of the Administrative Hearing Officer. Nothing herein limits the authority of the city or other law enforcement authority to seek or obtain a search warrant if there is probably cause of crime on private property or an inspectorial order for the purpose of ascertaining the existence or nonexistence of conditions dangerous to health or safety or otherwise relevant to the public interest.

(3) The Person in Charge of the Permitted Premises shall be allowed to accompany the Mayor on his inspection.

(4) Upon completion of an inspection of a Permitted Premises, the Mayor shall prepare a written inspection report stating whether the Permitted Premises is in compliance with or in violation of the requirements of this ordinance.

(5) If the Mayor determines the Permitted Premises is not in compliance with the provisions of this ordinance, the report shall specify the nature of the noncompliance.

(6) The Mayor and the Person in Charge of the Permitted Premises shall sign the inspection report.

(7) A copy of the inspection report shall be furnished to the Person in Charge at the time of the inspection.

(8) All inspection reports for business Permitted Premises shall be posted on the AACC Website.

(D) Records. The Mayor shall be allowed to examine all records pertinent to the origin, care and disposition of Animals owned by the Permit Holder. A current record shall be kept which describes all Animals owned, purchased or received by the Permit Holder and the disposition of each Animal. Permit Holders shall promptly produce any and all documents pertaining to medical care and ownership records for inspection upon request of the Mayor. Permit Holders who sell, give away, loan, transfer or in any way alienate possession or ownership of an Animal shall keep records containing the name and address of each recipient, the date of disposition and the Permanent Identification of each Companion Animal. All required documents shall be kept for three years after the death or other disposition of any Animal owned by the Permit Holder.

(E) Permit Holders shall comply with all city ordinances including, but not limited to, the Comprehensive Zoning Code and Noise Ordinance provisions that pertain to Animals.

(F) Any Permitted Premises open to the public shall post a sign conspicuously observable by the public which states that all Companion Animals in the city must be spayed or neutered unless they possess an Intact Animal Permit and they must be Licensed and Microchipped or otherwise Permanently Identified. Such signs shall be at least 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches in size and contain lettering at least 1 inch in height.

(G) Non-residential Permitted Premises shall post their Permit in a conspicuous place.

(H) The Permit Holder shall notify the Mayor of any changes which may affect the status of the Permit and shall keep the Mayor informed of any changes in the Permit Holder's name, address, home and business telephone numbers, location of the Permitted Premises, emergency contacts and activities covered by the Permit.

(I) Both the Person in Charge of a Permitted Premises and the Owner of the Permitted Premises shall be responsible for complying with this ordinance.

§ 9-2-3-4 PERMIT RENEWALS.

(A) An application for the renewal of a Permit shall be filed with AACC not less than 30 days before the date the Permit expires.

(B) The application, inspection procedures and fees for Permit renewals shall be the same as those for new applications.

(C) Failure to renew a Permit as specified shall result in the expiration of the Permit. In addition to the renewal fee the Mayor may charge a late fee.

§ 9-2-3-5 PERMIT APPLICATIONS.

(A) Applicants for any Permit shall meet the standards of a Qualified Adopter.

(B) Application Process.

(1) The application form shall require the applicant to affirm under penalty of perjury that the applicant meets the standards of a Qualified Adopter and to provide information that is sufficient to assure the Mayor that the applicant has the knowledge and facilities adequate to care for the Animals covered by the Permit in a manner that protects both the Animals and the public.

(2) The application form shall require the applicant to supply the names, addresses and phone numbers of two adults not living at the same address as the applicant, or each other, for the purpose of being emergency contacts. These people must agree to take responsibility for the Animals in the event the Permit Holder becomes unable to take care of the Animals covered by their Permit.

(3) No Person shall be issued a Permit if that Person is jointly interested in the Permit or otherwise in privity with any Person who does not meet the standards of a Qualified Adopter.

(4) Within 30 days of the receipt of a Permit application the Mayor shall review the application and inspect the premises. The Mayor shall approve, conditionally approve or deny the Permit application and notify the applicant in writing of the decision.

(5) The Mayor may approve an application only after the following determinations are made:

(a) the standards established by this ordinance and other applicable laws and regulations have been met;

(b) the issuance of a Permit will not result in activity which presents a danger to the public health, safety or welfare; and

(c) the issuance of a Permit does not create a nuisance for any Person.

(6) If any affected party wishes to appeal the Mayor's decision regarding a Permit application, the party may request an Administrative Hearing before the Administrative Hearing Officer.

§ 9-2-3-6 INTACT COMPANION ANIMAL PERMIT OR ICAP.

Owners of dogs and cats over the age of six months that have not been Altered shall obtain an Intact Companion Animal Permit for those Animals.

(A) All Intact Companion Animals must be Licensed and Permanently Identified by a Microchip or other identification method acceptable to the Mayor before an ICAP can be issued.

(B) No Person shall have more than four Intact Companion Animals in any Household.

(C) The Household shall be secure against ingress by Companion Animals of the same species or egress of the Companion Animal for which the ICAP is issued. The Household shall meet the standards of a Secure Facility or a Secure Fence.

(D) If an Intact Companion Animal that has been issued an ICAP is Impounded twice by AACC, the ICAP will be automatically revoked and the Intact Companion Animal will be required to be Altered. If an Intact Companion Animal is Impounded twice and must therefore be Altered, the Permit Holder shall pay AACC to Alter the Companion Animal.

(E) If an ICAP Holder wants to breed an Intact Companion Animal or if a female Intact Companion Animal has been impregnated, the ICAP Holder must obtain a Litter Permit prior to the birth of the Litter.

(F) Medical Waiver Certificate.

(1) If Alteration of a Companion Animal would endanger the health of the Companion Animal due to age or Illness, a Veterinarian may complete a Medical Waiver Certificate stating the reasons why the Companion Animal should not be Altered.

(2) The Medical Waiver Certificate must include a description of the Companion Animal, including the Permanent Identification information.

(3) Upon receipt of a Medical Waiver Certificate, the Mayor may request a second opinion from a different Veterinarian.

(4) The Mayor may direct the AACC Veterinarian to examine any Animal listed in a Medical Waiver Certificate if there appears to be an abundance of Medical Waiver Certificates from one particular Veterinarian or Veterinary clinic.

(5) If there is a difference of opinion between the two Veterinarians as to whether the Companion Animal may be safely Altered, a written notice will be provided to the Owner indicating that a Medical Waiver Certificate has been rejected. The Owner will then be required to Alter the Animal or pay for an Intact Companion Animal Permit. The decision to deny a Medical Waiver Certificate due to a difference in professional opinions by two Veterinarians may be subject to appeal by the Owner.

(6) Upon the acceptance of a Medical Waiver Certificate by AACC, the Owner shall be issued an Intact Companion Animal Permit free of charge.

(7) Medical Waiver Certificates shall be valid for one year. Upon expiration of the Medical Waiver Certificate, the Owner shall be required to reapply for the Intact Companion Animal Permit.

§ 9-2-3-7 COMPANION ANIMAL LITTER PERMIT.

(A) Owners of female intact Companion Animals must obtain a Litter Permit prior to the birth of a Litter or within one week after the birth of the Litter.

(B) All female Intact Companion Animals must have an ICAP and be Licensed and Microchipped or otherwise Permanently Identified before a Litter Permit will be issued.

(C) No Person shall apply for or obtain more than four Litter Permits per Household in any consecutive 12 month period.

(D) No Person shall apply for or obtain more than one Litter Permit per female Companion Animal per Household in any consecutive 12 month period.

(E) Litter Permits expire six months from the date of issue.

(F) During the time the Litter Permit is in effect and while the Litter is with the mother, but for no longer than six months from the time of birth of the Litter, the Litter Permit Holder may exceed the Animal Possession Limits in this ordinance.

(G) AACC may waive the Litter Permit Fee for Rescue Groups and Fosters.

(H) The following Care and Disposition requirements regarding Litter Companion Animals are in effect whether or not the Owner of the Litter possesses a Litter Permit:

(1) Puppies and kittens shall have at least the first in any series of required Vaccinations and be de-wormed by a de-worming treatment consistent with the size and age of the Animal before being transferred to a new Owner or otherwise separated from the mother.

(2) Puppies and kittens shall be microchipped or otherwise Permanently Identified prior to being separated from the mother. Proof of Permanent Identification must be provided to AACC.

(3) The Litter Permit Holder shall upon transfer or conveyance of the kitten or puppy, deliver a complete Vaccination record to the new Owner.

(4) The Litter Permit Holder shall document and retain for inspection the name and address of each recipient of any Litter Companion Animal once owned by the Litter Permit Holder.

(5) The Litter Permit Holder is liable for the medical costs, including medicine, for any puppy or kitten that is diagnosed as sick by a Veterinarian within one week from the date of sale. The Litter Permit Holder shall reimburse the new Owner the costs associated with the sick Animal, up to the amount of money the puppy or kitten was purchased for. The new Owner shall be allowed to keep the puppy or kitten even if the Litter Permit Holder pays the medical costs. The new Owner or the Litter Permit Holder may appeal to the Administrative Hearing Officer if there is a dispute as to the fact of the Illness or the amount of the charges. If the Litter Permit Holder does not prevail on appeal, the Litter Permit Holder shall reimburse the costs of the appeal to the new Owner.

(6) A Litter Permit is required to advertise any Companion Animal under the age of six months old for sale, gift or other transfer or conveyance, in any local periodical or newspaper of general circulation. The Litter Permit number must be included in any advertisement.

(7) Failure to advertise without including a valid Litter Permit number shall be a violation of this ordinance. Any Person who advertises a Companion Animal and purports in the advertisement to reside outside the city limits or lists a telephone number outside the city limits and is subsequently found to maintain Companion Animals inside the city limits or is found attempting to sell Companion Animals in the city limits is in violation of this ordinance. Each day of possession of each said Animal will constitute a separate offense.

(8) Puppies and kittens can only be sold, given as a gift or other transfer or conveyance from the location listed on the Litter Permit. Puppies or kittens being sold on public property or commercial property even with the Owner's permission are in violation of this ordinance and the puppies and kittens may be seized.

(9) Puppies and kittens shall not be sold to a Pet Store, Animal Broker or other Animal dealer.

(10) Puppies and kittens shall not be released from the Permitted Premises prior to 8 weeks of age.

§ 9-2-3-8 MULTIPLE COMPANION ANIMAL SITE PERMIT OR MCASP.

Any Person intending to exceed the maximum limit of six Companion Animals, no more than four of which are dogs, in a Household shall obtain a Multiple Companion Animal Site Permit (MCASP).

(A) All Companion Animals at a Multiple Companion Animal Site shall be Licensed, Microchipped or otherwise Permanently Identified. Fostering a pregnant Companion Animal and her eventual offspring is a temporary exception to this rule.

(B) A MCASP will only be granted to applicants in a Residential Zone.

(C) Any adjoining property owner may petition the Administrative Hearing Officer for revocation, modification or suspension of a MCASP if the adjoining property owner is reasonably aggrieved by any effects of the Multiple Animal Site.

(D) No Person shall keep or maintain more than 15 Companion Animals at any MCASP site, no more than four of which can be Intact. This limit may be exceeded under special circumstances determined by the Mayor.

§ 9-2-3-9 PERMISSIBLE EXOTIC OR WILD ANIMAL COLLECTION PERMIT OR EWACP.

(A) Any Person who wishes to receive, purchase, own or keep 15 or more Permissible Exotic or Wild Animals shall first obtain an Exotic or Wild Animal Collection Permit (EWACP).

(B) The applicant shall supply AACC with a list of all Exotics owned by the applicant. The EWACP Holder shall supply an updated list every year as part of the Permit renewal process.

(C) Notwithstanding the foregoing, zoological parks, Rehabilitators licensed through the State of New Mexico, Veterinary hospitals, and the humane society shelters are excluded from the provisions of this section, provided that the excluded facilities use protective devices adequate to prevent the Exotic or Wild Animals from escaping or injuring the public and the Animals will not be used in any kind of testing or experimentation. The city expects these excluded entities to treat the Exotic or Wild Animals in their possession in a humane manner as stated in this ordinance.

(D) No Person shall own, harbor or keep any species in violation of federal or New Mexico law.

(E) Exotic or Wild Animals shall never be released from captivity within the city limits without written permission from the Mayor whether or not the Owner has an EWACP.

(F) The Mayor may Seize the Exotic or Wild Animal for its Owner's failure to obtain an EWACP or comply with this ordinance and such Animal shall become the property of the city. The EWACP Holder or Owner of the Exotic or Wild Animal is liable for any costs incurred by the city and such costs may result in a lien being placed against the Exotic or Wild Animal.

(G) The Mayor shall use Seizure procedures which protect the public, the Exotic or Wild Animal and other Animals. The Mayor may convey an Exotic or Wild Animal in his possession to any Zoo, Sanctuary or refuge or dispose of the Animal in a Humane Manner.

§ 9-2-3-10 GUARD DOG SITE PERMIT OR GDSP.

Any Person wishing to operate a Guard Dog Site shall obtain a Guard Dog Site Permit (GDSP).

(A) Any Person wishing to operate a Guard Dog Site shall have a Tax ID number and be registered under the Albuquerque Business Registration Ordinance before applying for a GDSP.

(B) The Owner of the Guard Dog must have an Intact Companion Animal Permit for each Intact dog.

(C) The GDSP attaches to the real property and the GDSP Holder may not transfer Guard Dogs to a separate site lacking a GDSP.

(D) A GDSP will not be granted for property in a Residential Zone or within 250 feet of a school.

(E) When a Guard Dog is on duty outside of a building, the premises must be enclosed by a Secure Fence.

(F) The escape of a Guard Dog from a Guard Dog Site is a violation of this ordinance and can constitute a basis for revocation of a GDSP and seizure of the dog.

(G) If the Mayor determines it is necessary to control noise at the Guard Dog Site, the Mayor may require the Owner of the site or GDSP Holder to construct a barrier which breaks the Guard Dog's line of sight to the exterior and adequately buffers the noise.

(H) The doors, windows, and all other openings to the outside of a building where a Guard Dog is on duty must be secured to prevent its escape.

(I) The Guard Dog Site shall be posted with warning signs that are at least 12 inches by 12 inches.

(1) The warning signs shall state "Guard Dog" and "Guardia" and shall show a picture of an aggressive dog.

(2) The warning signs shall be posted not more than 50 feet apart on the exterior of the fences or walls surrounding the site, and shall be posted at all exterior corners of the site and at every entrance to the site.

(J) Vehicles used to transport Guard Dogs shall be secured so the public is protected from Injury, shall be constructed or modified to ensure that the Guard Dog is transported in a safe, humane manner and that does not violate § 9-2-2-6 et seq., and shall be posted with warning signs on each side of the vehicle.

(K) A GDSP Holder shall not apply for a Litter Permit or Multiple Companion Animal Site Permit for the Guard Dog Site. No breeding of Animals is allowed at a Guard Dog Site.

§ 9-2-3-11 ANIMAL SERVICE PROVIDER PERMIT OR ASPP.

Any Establishment intending to conduct business as an Animal Service Provider shall obtain an Animal Service Provider Permit (ASPP). The ASPP applicant must have a valid Tax ID Number and a City of Albuquerque Business Registration under the Business Registration Ordinance.

§ 9-2-3-12 PET STORE PERMIT OR PSP.

Pet Stores shall not sell Companion Animals but may sell other living creatures including, but not limited to, fish, birds, rodents, insects, arachnids, reptiles and other Permissible Exotic Animal.

(A) No Pet Store shall conduct business in the city without a Pet Store Permit (PSP).

(B) The applicant for a PSP must have a valid Tax ID Number and a City of Albuquerque Business Registration under the Business Registration Ordinance before applying for a PSP.

(C) The PSP must attach to a specific real property commercial site.

(D) No PSP Holder may sell or offer for sale any Animal from a mobile facility or at a site away from the PSP site.

(E) A PSP Holder shall not apply for or obtain an Intact Companion Animal Permit, Litter Permit or Multiple Companion Animal Site Permit.

(F) PSP Holders are liable for the medical costs including medicine, up to the amount the Animal was sold for, for any Animal that is diagnosed as sick by a Veterinarian qualified for the species within one week from the date of sale.

(G) The PSP Holder shall reimburse the patron the costs associated with the sick Animal, up to the amount paid by the patron when the Animal was purchased.

(H) The patron shall be allowed to keep the Animal, even if the PSP Holder pays the medical costs.

(I) The patron or the PSP Holder may appeal to the Administrative Hearing Officer if there is a dispute as to the fact of the Illness or the amount of the charges. If the PSP Holder does not prevail on appeal, the PSP Holder shall reimburse the costs of the appeal to the patron.

(J) Thorough and accurate records for each Animal that passes through a PSP site must be maintained and kept for three years and must be made available upon demand by the Mayor. These records shall include, but are not limited to, the name, address and telephone number of each Person who bought an Animal and information on where each Animal came from originally.

(K) Animals with known or suspected communicable diseases shall be isolated, as appropriate, and treated as soon as possible.

(L) The daily use of antibiotics for preventative purposes, and not to treat a specific Illness or condition, is prohibited whether administered in food, water or by any other method.

§ 9-2-3-13 TROLLEY PERMIT.

The Owner of a Dog who has exhausted all options for restricting its dog to its property may apply for a one year Trolley Permit.

(A) The Mayor may issue a Trolley Permit upon an applicant’s proving the following:

(1) All other methods of restricting the dog to the property of the Owner have been exhausted.

(2) A Trolley is deemed the only acceptable temporary method to keep the Animal on the Owner's property.

(3) The dog has been spayed or neutered, Microchipped, and has a current Albuquerque Companion Animal License.

(B) No more than one dog per Household will be allowed to use a Trolley.

(C) A dog attached to a Trolley shall be surrounded by a barrier sufficient to protect the dog from At Large Animals. The barrier shall be sufficient to prevent children from accidentally coming into contact with the dog on the Trolley.

(D) No dog shall be left on a Trolley for longer than 9 hours in a twenty-four hour period.

(E) Trolley Permits