53.34.4 - Dangerous Animal Hearings Provides for an administrative hearing to be conducted to determine if a dog or other animal is dangerous, or if the dog or other animal is not dangerous, but that a bite, attack or injury was the result of improper or negligent training, handling or maintenance. A Hearing Examiner appointed by the General Manager, Department of Animal Regulation, is solely responsible for the conduct of the Hearings. The Hearing Examiner receives and evaluates evidence presented at the hearing and prepares a written report and recommendation to the General Manager, Department of Animal Regulation. The Hearing Examiner will receive any evidence that is relevant. A copy of the Department case file may be obtained at a nominal cost by submitting a written request to the Animal Care and Control Center's Field Supervisor filing the case.
All testimony is taken under sworn oath.
Any intentional submission of false information may lead to criminal charges. Any evidence submitted at the hearing becomes a permanent part of the hearing record and will not be returned. The General Manager, Department of Animal Regulation makes the final decision. This decision is legally binding unless appealed by the respondent. Appeals are heard by the Board of Animal Regulation Commission.