This bill amends West Virginia Code §19-20-6 to increase the impoundment period for dogs from five days to 30 days and modifies the notice requirements for dog owners. The county dog warden is now required to notify the owner of an impounded dog, if known, and if the owner is unknown, the warden must post a notice in the county courthouse, on the County Commission's official website, or on its official Facebook page. The notice must include a photograph of the dog, a description, and the location where it was seized, advising that the dog will be sold or destroyed if not redeemed within the new 30-day period.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the county dog warden and deputies must patrol their designated areas to seize and impound dogs over six months old that do not have valid registration tags. The bill also maintains the authority of county commissions to create and enforce ordinances related to dog control, including penalties for violations, which may result in fines up to $100. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the management and care of impounded dogs while ensuring that owners are adequately informed about their pets' status.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 19-20-6