Albuquerque City Councilwoman Sally Mayer has proposed sweeping changes to the city's animal control ordinance that would drastically impact fanciers' rights to breed their dogs. To view the proposed changes click here: http://www.cabq.gov/council/animalord.pdf. The measure's restrictive provisions include:
- An annual $150 permit for each unaltered dog or cat over six months old.
- A $150 litter permit, which expires six months after the date of issue.
- A limit of six animals per household (four of the same species) unless residents purchase a $50 multiple companion animal site permit.
- Requirements that owners microchip their dogs and cats.
In applying for any permit, dog owners would be forced to comply with a long list of provisions, including submitting to property and record-keeping inspections.
Violations of the proposed ordinance could result in $500 fine and/or 90 days in jail.
The American Kennel Club opposes the concept of breeding permits, breeding bans and mandatory spay/neuter of purebred dogs. Instead, we support reasonable and enforceable laws that protect the welfare and health of purebred dogs and do not restrict the rights of responsible breeders and owners. Exorbitant fees place undue burden on responsible breeders and fail to address the irresponsible individuals who do not comply with existing law and will not comply with new regulations. Such fees therefore punish responsible breeders who give the care and attention that puppies need in order to grow into healthy, well-adjusted companions and neighbors.
The AKC believes that the key to solving Albuquerque's animal control problems lies in educating the public about responsible dog ownership and responsible breeding practices, along with better enforcement of reasonable nuisance and dangerous dog laws. It is critical that local fanciers convey these same concerns to Albuquerque's city officials! Albuquerque fanciers, including members of the Rio Grande Kennel Club, are working to oppose the ordinance and to support fair and reasonable animal control legislation that does not penalize responsible owners and breeders. However, more help is urgently needed!
What You Can Do:
Although the measure has not yet been formally introduced, AKC encourages dog owners to submit their comments online at:
http://www.cabq.gov/council/animal.html
or contact Councilwoman Mayer to voice their opposition.
One Civic Plaza NW
City Council, Room 9087
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Telephone: (505) 768-3100
Office Fax: (505) 768-3227
smayer@cabq.gov
For more information, contact:
Patte Klecan
Rio Grande Kennel Club
BEDRCKBOUV@aol.com
AKC's Canine Legislation Department
919-816-3720
doglaw@akc.org
Albuquerque City Councilwoman Sally Mayer has proposed sweeping changes to
the city’s animal…