Rabies or other animal disease -- Investigation and order of quarantine

(1) As used in this section, "quarantine" means strict confinement upon the private premises of the owners, under restraint by leash, closed cage or paddock of all animals specified by the order. (2) (a) Whenever rabies or any other animal disease dangerous to the health of human beings is reported, the department shall investigate to determine whether such disease exists, and the probable area of the state in which man or beast is thereby endangered. (b) If the department finds that such disease exists, a quarantine may be declared against all animals designated in the quarantine order and within the area specified in the order. (c) If the quarantine is for the purpose of preventing the spread of rabies or hydrophobia, the order shall contain a warning to the owners of dogs within the quarantined area to confine or muzzle all dogs to prevent biting. (d) Any dog not muzzled found running at large in a quarantined area or any dog known to have been removed from or escaped from such area, may be killed by any person without liability therefor. (3) Following the order of quarantine the department shall make a thorough investigation as to the extent of the disease, the probable number of persons and beasts exposed, and the area involved. (4) During the period any quarantine order is in force all peace officers may kill or capture and hold for further action by the department all animals in a quarantined area not held in restraint on private premises.