Summary:
The City of Fresno has adopted a resolution that suspends the issuance of new unaltered dog licenses until the 3-month shelter occupancy rate average drops below 75 percent after the mayor signed the measure unanimously passed by the city council. As the city is currently above this threshold, the issuance of new unaltered dog licenses is to be immediately suspended. The measure adopted by the city council contains NO exemptions.
Additional Information on the Resolution:
Additionally, the resolution states:
- Any advertisement to the public regarding the availability of any dogs for sale or transfer, which was bred for the purpose of selling or transfer within the City, whether for compensation or otherwise, shall prominently display the unaltered dog license.
- Any dog owners whose animal has been either bred or sold or transferred without an unaltered dog license shall constitute a misdemeanor.
- Any commercial operation that allows for the sale or transfer of dogs within its premises without a proper unaltered dog license shall constitute as a misdemeanor.
- Any person who violates this resolution shall be assessed by means of administrative citations and shall be payable directly to the City of Fresno. Administrative fees for violation of this resolution shall be assessed at $1,000.00 per dog. Each and every day a violation exists constitutes a separate and distinct offense.
- Breeding shall be deemed to have occurred upon the production of offspring, whether such offspring results from sexual activity or artificial insemination, and whether such sexual activity was intentional or the result of improper confinement.
The AKC appreciates all who weighed in on the resolution and will continue to advocate for responsible dog ownership. We will monitor the resolution as it takes effect.
AKC GR will provide updates as warranted on next steps as they are available. For questions or more information on California legislation, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.