Issues at the City, County, and Metropolitan Levels, and in US Territories
GA, DeKalb County – An overreaching proposed ordinance 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 proposal seeks to limit to the number of litter permits issued per household during any consecutive 12-month period, prohibit breeding more than one litter per female animal in a 12-month period, and authorize unlimited inspections of permittees’ premises. It also would mandate conditions for all residents who sell/transfer/give away pets, enact consumer protection provisions that lack due process for both the buyer and seller, and other egregious provisions. The ordinance has been deferred to the Operations Committee on December 3 and to the Board of Commissioners on December 10. View AKC’s alert that outlines additional concerns.
SC, Fairfield County – Thanks to the quick action of animal owners in Fairfield County, the county council unanimously decided to send a radical animal ordinance back to committee. Among many other egregious provisions, the ordinance sought to establish problematic requirements and numerous new fees for dog and cat owners, exhibitors, breeders, and sportsmen. The same ordinance or a revised version could be considered at a future date. View AKC’s most recent update.
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.
TX, Longview -The Longview Animal Shelter Advisory Committee has approved an ordinance mandating spaying/neutering, creating intact animal permits, and establishing an animal breeder license. The Longview City Council will consider this ordinance package in the coming weeks. AKC is expressing opposition to the full Longview City Council and recommending alternative solutions to the communities shelter overpopulation issues. Read more.