§ 8-16-8. Adoption of animals.

Once an animal becomes the property of the city animal shelter either by gift, donation, abandonment or any other voluntary conveyance or as a result of pickup by the animal shelter or any other person or entity after the animal has been found running at large in violation of this chapter and as provided for in section 8-16-17, may be adopted in accordance with the terms of the adoption contract (supplied by the shelter) and upon payment of an adoption/sterilization fee, licensing fee and fees for any other service supplied but the city animal shelter in connection with such animal. Each unaltered dog and/or cat may be sterilized by the shelter veterinarian or representative prior to leaving the shelter. Any individual taking an unaltered dog or cat from the shelter must comply with applicable ordinances and policies relating to unsterilized animals. If it is determined that a former owner of an animal is applying for adoption, such former owner may gain ownership or possession only by payment of redemption fees set forth in section 8-16-17.

(Code 1967, § 7-42; Code 1985, § 5-62; Ord. No. 3189, § 1, 3-9-1982; Ord. No. 4506, § 1, 9-16-1997; Ord. No. 5433, § 1, 1-3-2012)

State law reference

The Tennessee Spay/Neuter Law, T.C.A. § 44-17-501 et seq.