The sheriff or other officer to whom such order for attachment is directed shall forthwith serve a certified copy of the order upon such defendant as summons is served in other civil cases, and attaching the vessel, her tackle, apparel and furniture, and shall keep the same until disposed of as hereinafter provided. The sheriff or other officer shall also, on or before the return day in such order, or at any time after the service thereof, make a return to the court, stating therein particularly his or her doings in the premises, and shall make, subscribe and annex thereto a just and true inventory of all the property so attached.