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Cecil County Md Stray Animal Law Picked up by Animal Control Authority or held by a Good Samaritan/Rescue

​§ 142-7Impoundment of nondangerous dogs.

A. Dogs may be seized by an Animal Care and Control Officer and confined in a humane manner at the discretion of the Animal Care and Control Officer or if the animal has been declared a public nuisance animal.

B. A domesticated animal that is impounded by the Animal Care and Control Authority shall be held a minimum of five business days, unless redeemed earlier, during which time: [Amended 9-15-2015 by Bill No. 2015-18[1]]

C. Any animal impounded under the provisions of this chapter shall become the property of the Animal Care and Control Authority and may be sold, placed or humanely euthanized after the latter of: [Amended 9-15-2015 by Bill No. 2015-18[2]]

(1) Five business days have elapsed and attempts to notify the owner have been unsuccessful; or (2) Five business days have elapsed after notice has been received by the owner.

[2] Editor's Note: This bill provided an effective date of 1-1-2016. D. At any time, the Animal Care and Control Authority may decide to humanely euthanize any animal that is seriously diseased or severely injured, or poses a physical threat to Animal Care and Control Authority staff.

E. All impounded animals shall, within 24 hours of impoundment, Monday through Friday, and 48 hours over weekends and holidays, be photographed and displayed on a website readily available for public access. The Internet posting shall remain until the animal is either reclaimed by its owner or is no longer in the possession of the Animal Care and Control Authority.