(1) A veterinarian may dispose of an animal placed in the veterinarian’s custody for treatment, boarding, or other care and abandoned by its owner by sending the notices required by this section. The veterinarian shall send a first written notice of an intent to dispose of the animal by certified mail to the owner, at his or her last known address and a second written notice not less than 5 days after sending the first notice. Upon the expiration of 5 days after sending the second written notice to the owner, a veterinarian may dispose of the animal.

    (2) The disposal of an animal does not release the owner from payment of costs incurred, including the disposal.

    (3) This section does not prevent the owner or agent from mitigating additional costs by removing the animal from custody of the veterinarian.

    (4) In the case of an animal abandoned by its owner, the owner is considered to have relinquished all rights to the animal.