Issues at the City, County, and Metropolitan Levels, and in US Territories
GA, DeKalb County – An ordinance proposed in DeKalb County seeks to require owners of female intact companion animals to obtain a litter permit prior to the birth of a litter or within one week after the litter’s birth. The female intact animals must also be microchipped or have other permanent identification before a permit would be issued. The proposal seeks to limit to the number of litter permits issued per household during any consecutive 12-month period and would prohibit breeding to one litter per female animal in any consecutive 12-month period. The proposal would also provide for conditions for sale of offspring, post-sale consumer protection provisions, and other requirements. Puppies and kittens would not be permitted to be sold to a pet store, animal broker, or other animal dealer.
KY, Lexington/Fayette Urban County – The urban council passed on first reading an ordinance to restrict pet stores to offering only dogs and cats procured from unregulated pet rescue organizations. The ordinance is expected to be considered again on June 27.
PA, West Mifflin Borough – West Mifflin Borough Council was to hold a public hearing and consider an ordinance at its June 18, 2024, meeting that would limit the number of animals that may be kept or maintained on any property. According to the proposed ordinance, “It shall be lawful for any person/owner to keep pets, but no more than three dogs and no more than five cats and/or dogs combined in total over the age of six months in a structure, living unit or unimproved land.” For example, a person/owner may lawfully have three dogs and two cats, or two dogs and three cats or five cats; but may never have more than 3 dogs. After hearing from AKC GR and hundreds of their constituents, the council withdrew the proposed ordinance prior to the public hearing.
SC, Columbia and surrounding counties – News stories report discussion of mandatory spay/neuter requirements for pets in the city of Columbia and in Lexington and Richmond Counties. AKC GR contacted local kennel club officers and recommended scheduling a stakeholders’ meeting by video conference.
TX, Houston – Houston Mayor John Whitmire recently discussed his belief that a mandatory spay/neuter law will address shelter population issues and stray animal issues. He implied there may be a future ordinance. AKC sent letters to the Houston City Council and Mayor opposing the development of an ordinance. No ordinance has been introduced thus far.
TX, San Antonio – A San Antonio City Councilmember requested an ordinance intended to address at-large and dangerous dog issues in the city. However, the request includes concerning provisions requesting the city adopt practices requiring the spaying/neutering of at-large animals even if the owner is identified. AKC is working with local clubs to ask that there be protections for responsible owners in any ordinance that is drafted, and encourage them to instead consider a comprehensive dangerous dog policy. Read more.