Issues at the City, County, and Metropolitan Levels, and in US Territories
AR, Sherwood – A proposed ordinance that would lift restrictions on ownership of “pit bull” dogs in the city was heard for a second time at the July 22, 2024. AKC GR submitted a letter in support of provisions in the ordinance that would end breed discrimination. It will be read again at a city council meeting on August 26, 2024. The meeting agenda will be available here when posted. Learn more.
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. The ordinance is scheduled to be considered on August 27, 2024.
GA, Forsyth County – An ordinance billed as an anti-hoarding measure has been enacted that makes hoarding animals an offense and requires a dog owner to obtain a dog permit following certain criminal and nuisance convictions related to animals.
IN, Indianapolis/Marion County – The Indianapolis City-County Council passed a mandatory registry for all intact dogs over 6 months of age. Those who register must comply with various requirements, including restrictions on breeding ages/litters, and basic requirements such as annual veterinary checkups and mandatory microchipping. AKC is concerned with the impact this could have on responsible owners and breeders, while not addressing the primary concern of irresponsible breeders in Marion County. AKC did work with the city to secure an amendment to remove restrictions on breeding ages, so long as the dam is deemed healthy enough for breeding by a licensed veterinarian. The proposal passed August 12 and is pending with the mayor. Read more.
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, 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, McAllen– Late week, the McAllen City Commission approved an ordinance to limit the number of pets a resident can own to a combined maximum of eight adult dogs and cats plus one litter of puppies or kittens. A resident can own more than 8 animals if they apply for a permit from the city. The original proposal recommended limiting ownership to 4 adult dogs and cats but was changed due to pushback from residents.