Section 173.21. Holding animals for cause.

 

(1)   Grounds. A political subdivision may withhold, or direct a person contracting under s. 173.15 (1) to withhold, an animal in custody from an owner who makes an otherwise adequate claim for the animal under s. 173.23 (1) on any of the following grounds:

(a) There are reasonable grounds to believe that the owner has used the animal in a crime under ch. 951 or that the animal constitutes evidence of a crime under ch. 951 .

(b) There are reasonable grounds to believe that the animal poses a significant threat to public health, safety or welfare.

(d) A court has ordered the animal withheld for any reason.

(2)   Examination permitted. If an animal is withheld under sub. (1) , upon request by the owner, a veterinarian retained by the owner may examine the animal.

(3)   Costs. The owner of an animal withheld under sub. (1) is not liable for any costs of custody, care or treatment except as provided by court order.

(4)   Return. Except with respect to an animal taken into custody under s. 173.13 (1) (a) 8. , a political subdivision or person contracting under s. 173.15 (1) having custody of an animal withheld under sub. (1) shall release the animal to the owner at the direction of the humane officer or law enforcement officer that took custody of the animal if the requirements of s. 173.23 (1) (a) to (c) are satisfied.

1997 a. 192 ; 2015 a. 233 .